Student & Graduate Visas
Start your journey in Australia — and plan for what’s next
Australia offers a world-class education system, and many international students choose to begin their migration journey here. Whether you’re applying for a Student Visa (subclass 500) or planning ahead for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), it’s important to understand the visa conditions, work rights, and long-term options from the start.
At TranQuill Legal, we guide students and recent graduates through these complex transitions from enrolment through to post-study work and future residency pathways.
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
This visa allows you to live and study in Australia full-time. It can also allow your spouse and dependent children to accompany you during your studies.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be enrolled in a registered course with an Australian education provider
- Hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Be aged 6 years or older
- Have appropriate welfare arrangements if under 18
- Show access to sufficient funds for tuition, travel, and living expenses
- Provide evidence that your parents or spouse can financially support you (minimum income requirements apply)
Visa features:
- Stay in Australia for the duration of your course (up to 5 years)
- Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods (unlimited during breaks)
- Include eligible family members on your application
- Pathway to a Graduate Visa or skilled migration after your studies
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This visa allows international students to stay in Australia after finishing their studies, gain work experience, and potentially transition to permanent residency.
There are two main streams:
Graduate Work Stream
For students who completed a qualification related to an occupation on the skilled occupation list.
- Valid for up to 18 months
- Requires a skills assessment in your nominated occupation
- English and health requirements apply
Post-Study Work Stream
For international students who completed a higher education degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) in Australia.
- Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification level and location
- No need for skills assessment
- Available only to those who applied for their first student visa on or after 5 November 2011
Why Clients Trust TranQuill Legal
Student and graduate visas come with detailed requirements — and mistakes can lead to refusals or lost opportunities to stay longer in Australia.
We can help with:
Whether you’re just beginning your studies or about to graduate, we can help you make informed decisions and maximise your options.
📞 Call us on 02 6140 5311
📩 Email info@tranquill.com.au