Graduate Visa (485) vs Student Visa (500): Which One Suits Your Australian Journey?

What You’ll Learn

In this comparison, we’ll delve into the essential aspects of Australia’s Graduate Visa (485) and Student Visa (500), helping you make an informed decision based on your educational and professional aspirations.

Quick Comparison Table

Overview of Graduate Visa (485)

The Graduate Visa (485) is tailored for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia and wish to gain work experience related to their field of study.

Pros

– **Full Work Rights**: Allows unrestricted full-time employment, enabling graduates to gain relevant work experience.
– **Pathway to Permanent Residency**: Serves as a stepping stone towards permanent residency through skilled migration pathways.
– **Family Inclusion**: Eligible to include immediate family members in the application.

Cons

– **Age Limit**: Applicants must be under 50 years of age.
– **Application Timing**: Must apply within six months of completing studies.
– **Health Insurance**: Requires Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC), which may differ from previous health insurance arrangements.

Overview of Student Visa (500)

The Student Visa (500) is designed for individuals who wish to pursue full-time studies at a registered Australian educational institution.

Pros

– **Extended Stay**: Allows stay up to five years, depending on the course duration.
– **Family Inclusion**: Eligible to include immediate family members in the application.
– **Work Rights**: Permits part-time work during study periods and full-time work during scheduled course breaks.

Cons

– **Limited Work Hours**: Restricted to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
– **Financial Requirements**: Increased financial capacity requirements as of May 2024. ([ruppertlegal.com.au](https://www.ruppertlegal.com.au/australian-visa-and-immigration-news/8dmhl4x7jf0r2pqjhbc55t7wnkifi2?utm_source=openai))
– **Health Insurance**: Requires Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which may differ from previous health insurance arrangements.

Side-by-Side Breakdown

Purpose and Eligibility

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Designed for recent graduates seeking to work in Australia post-study.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Intended for individuals aiming to study full-time at a registered Australian educational institution.

Duration and Work Rights

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Stay periods range from 18 months to four years, depending on qualification, with full-time work rights.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Stay up to five years with limited work rights during study periods.

Application Process and Fees

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Base application fee starting at AUD 1,945; processing times vary.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Base application fee starting at AUD 1,600; processing times vary. ([studiesinaustralia.com](https://www.studiesinaustralia.com/Blog/about-australia/the-ultimate-guide-to-australian-visas?utm_source=openai))

Post-Visa Opportunities

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Can serve as a pathway to permanent residency through skilled migration pathways.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Primarily for study; may require transitioning to another visa for post-study work.

Health Insurance Requirements

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) required.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) required.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice between the Graduate Visa (485) and the Student Visa (500) should align with your current status and future goals:

– **Graduate Visa (485)**: Ideal for recent graduates aiming to gain work experience in Australia related to their field of study.
– **Student Visa (500)**: Best for individuals seeking to pursue full-time studies at an Australian educational institution.

Graduate Visa (485) vs Student Visa (500): The Final Verdict

Findings and Recap

Choosing between the Graduate Visa (485) and the Student Visa (500) hinges on your current educational status and career objectives. The Graduate Visa (485) offers a pathway for recent graduates to gain work experience in Australia, potentially leading to permanent residency. In contrast, the Student Visa (500) is tailored for individuals aiming to pursue full-time studies in Australia. Assess your goals to determine which visa aligns best with your aspirations.

Related reading: Understanding Australia’s Skilled Migration Pathways

AI Image Prompt: A split-screen image depicting a graduate holding a diploma on one side and a student studying in a classroom on the other, symbolizing the transition from study to work in Australia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Graduate Visa (485) and Student Visa (500)?

The Graduate Visa (485) is designed for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia, allowing them to live, work, and study temporarily. In contrast, the Student Visa (500) is intended for individuals who wish to study full-time in Australia at a registered educational institution. The key distinction lies in their purpose: the 485 visa facilitates post-study work opportunities, while the 500 visa permits full-time study. ([jlhallam.com.au](https://www.jlhallam.com.au/understanding-the-differences-temporary-graduate-485-visa-vs-student-visa-500/?utm_source=openai))

Can I work while holding a Student Visa (500)?

Yes, Student Visa (500) holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term. However, during scheduled course breaks, you may work unlimited hours. It’s important to note that these work rights are subject to visa conditions and may vary based on your course level. ([jlhallam.com.au](https://www.jlhallam.com.au/understanding-the-differences-temporary-graduate-485-visa-vs-student-visa-500/?utm_source=openai))

What are the eligibility requirements for the Graduate Visa (485)?

To be eligible for the Graduate Visa (485), applicants must have completed a CRICOS-registered course that lasted at least two academic years. The application must be submitted within six months of completing the course. Additionally, applicants must meet English language and health requirements. ([istudentplus.com](https://www.istudentplus.com/student-visa-vs-graduate-visa-whats-the-difference/?utm_source=openai))

How long can I stay in Australia on a Graduate Visa (485)?

The duration of stay on a Graduate Visa (485) depends on the stream under which you apply. The Post-Study Work Stream allows stays ranging from 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification. The Graduate Work Stream permits stays of up to 18 months. ([kinmigration.com.au](https://www.kinmigration.com.au/visas/485-visa?utm_source=openai))

Can I include my family members in my visa application?

Yes, both the Student Visa (500) and Graduate Visa (485) allow applicants to include their spouse or de facto partner and dependent children in the application. The work rights of your family members may vary based on your level of study and visa conditions. ([jlhallam.com.au](https://www.jlhallam.com.au/understanding-the-differences-temporary-graduate-485-visa-vs-student-visa-500/?utm_source=openai))

What is the cost of applying for a Graduate Visa (485)?

As of July 2024, the application fee for the Graduate Visa (485) is A$1,945. Additional charges apply for dependent applicants: A$975 for those 18 years or older and A$490 for those under 18. ([aussiemigrationservices.com.au](https://aussiemigrationservices.com.au/temporary-graduate-subclass-485-visa/?utm_source=openai))

Can I apply for a Graduate Visa (485) while in Australia on a Student Visa (500)?

Yes, you can apply for the Graduate Visa (485) while in Australia on a Student Visa (500), provided you meet all eligibility criteria. It’s essential to apply before your Student Visa expires and within six months of completing your course. ([kinmigration.com.au](https://www.kinmigration.com.au/visas/485-visa?utm_source=openai))

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