If you are thinking and planning to study in Australia in 2026, then you must not restrict your planning to studies. Your plan must also focus on points like what’s after graduation and career prospects. Understanding your plan after graduation is crucial because one step can lead you towards a successful life. Hence, it is always suggested that after your graduation, you must look for some post-study work. Post-study work options make you responsible, financially independent, build networks, help with time management, and lots more to add on. To get yourself involved in this schedule, you must have a post study work visa or an Australia work permit visa. Having a post-study work visa in Australia, somewhere, helps you with permanent residency too.
Thus, in this blog, you will learn about the post study work visa Australia, Australia work visa for Indians, post study work visa in Australia requirements, Australia work visa fees, and all other information related to it.
What is a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
The Post Study Work Visa Australia is generally a temporary visa that permits international students to live, work, and gain experience in Australia for a fixed period of time. Students who have completed a degree from an Australian institution can benefit from a post-study work visa in Australia. This visa falls under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
A post-study work visa in Australia benefits students by helping them explore their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, improving skills, helping them secure long-term employment or getting a permit for permanent residence in Australia.
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Types of Post Study Work Visas in Australia
Under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), there are two main types of post study work visas in Australia. Let’s have a look at them:
| Visas | Eligibility | Duration |
| Post-Study Work Stream | Students who have completed minimum 2 years of study in Australia. Students can have a bachelor’s, master’s or a PhD degree. | For Bachelor’s degree: 2-4 years For Master’s degree: 3 to 5 years For PhD: up to 6 years |
| Graduate Work Stream | Students who have completed Vocational Education and Training (VET) in courses related to Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) | 18 months – 2 years, (Depends on applicants) |
Post Study Work Visa in Australia Requirements
If you plan to work in Australia after your higher education, then this topic is going to be a great help for you. Under the Post Study Work Visa in Australia requirements, you will learn about the general requirements and the post-study work stream. Let’s take a look further:
- Your age must not exceed 50 years.
- You must hold an eligible visa (such as a Student Visa – Subclass 500)
- You must have completed your studies for at least 2 years in Australia.
- Hold a UG/PG or Phd degree from an Australian university.
- The course you opt for during your studies must be CRICOS-registered and taught in English.
- Once your course is completed, apply for a post-study work visa in Australia within 6 months.
- Hold a valid passport.
- Qualify the English language proficiency tests like IELTS/TOEFL.
- Have health insurance like OSHC or OVHC.
- Have a character certificate and health requirements.
How Long Can You Stay with a Post-Study Work Visa in Australia?
The duration of your stay depends on the Australia work permit visa under the Post-Study Work Stream, which varies based on your qualification level. For example, the period of your stay in Australia for graduate and postgraduate students differs. The below listed table below can clear everything out.
| Qualification | Visa Duration (2026) |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 to 4 years |
| Master’s by Coursework | 3 to 5 years |
| Master’s by Research | Up to 5 years |
| PhD | Up to 6 years |
| VET (Diploma/Certificate) | Up to 2 years (Graduate Work Stream) |
Australia Work Visa Fees for Indian Students
If you are applying for an Australian work visa, then the fees vary according to the visa type. For example, if you apply for a graduate, master’s or PhD visa, you will be asked to pay according to your higher education. Here’s a breakdown of the Australia work visa fees (Subclass 485) for 2026:
| Visa Type | Base Application Fee (AUD) | Approx. INR (2026) |
| Graduate Work Stream | AUD 1,895 | 1,07,843 |
| Post-Study Work Stream | AUD 1,895 | 1,07,843 |
| Additional applicants (18+) | AUD 950 | 54,063 |
| Additional applicants (<18) | AUD 475 | 27,031 |
*Exchange rates may vary
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How to Apply for a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
For working and residing in Australia after your studies, you need to have a post study work visa Australia. This visa allows you to stay in Australia for a certain period of time, enabling you to work here. If you are wondering how to apply for a post study visa in Australia, then this section covers the topic from scratch. Here is a step-by-step process to apply:
Read Also: Study in Australia Without IELTS
- At the initial stage, confirm your eligibility, educational qualifications, English proficiency, and the proper health checkup, for which visa type you are applying for.
- After this, gather required documents like a passport, academic transcripts and completion letter, English proficiency test score, health insurance proof, police clearance certificate, resume, and skills statement.
- Create an ImmiAccount to begin your online application. For this, you need to sign up for the Australian government Immi account portal.
- Submit your application by completing your visa application form online. Also, submit your character certificate and police clearance certificate as required.
- Wait for the visa decision, as this process can take up to 7-10 months depending on your stream.
Conclusion
For Indian students dreaming of building a bright future and a global career, the post study work visa in Australia is a great opportunity. Not only does it allow students to gain valuable work experience, explore different career pathways, but it also allows them to begin a journey towards permanent residency. Hence, to have a post-study work visa in Australia, you need to fulfill all the requirements. Whether for graduate, postgraduate or PhD programmes, you must get a visa accordingly.
FAQ – Post Study Work Visa in Australia
Is IELTS mandatory for a post-study work visa in Australia?
What things are required to get a good job in Australia after graduation?
To get a good job in Australia after graduation, you need to have good communication skills, excellent academics, and apply in high-demand fields like IT, nursing, engineering or business.
What are the Benefits of the Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
Holding a post study work visa in Australia can benefit you in several ways like, gaining practical experience, applying for Permanent Residency (PR), working full-time in any field, building professional networks, and much more.
