485 Visa Lodgement Deadline Calculator
Several clocks run at once when you apply for a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa, and the first one to run out sets your real deadline. Enter your dates and our free calculator shows the last day to lodge, and which clock runs out first.
Key points
- You must generally apply within 6 months of completing the course that meets the Australian study requirement.
- Your English test must be taken no more than 12 months before you apply.
- You need evidence that you have applied for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check.
- Apply while you still hold a valid visa, so you can get a bridging visa.
- There is generally no extension if you miss the 6 month window.
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This tool gives general information only, based on the answers you enter. It is not legal advice, it does not guarantee a decision, and the rules can change. For advice on your situation, book a consultation with one of our registered migration agents.
How the 485 deadline works
| Clock | Rule | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Course completion | Apply within 6 months of completing the course that meets the Australian study requirement | Use the completion date on your official completion letter, not your graduation ceremony |
| English test | The test must be taken no more than 12 months before you apply | Re sit the test if it will be too old, or lodge earlier |
| AFP police check | Provide evidence that you have applied for an AFP check | Apply early, and apply again if your check is more than 12 months old |
| Current visa | Apply while you hold a valid visa | Lodge before your visa expires, so you get a bridging visa |
This calculator treats the last day of each clock conservatively, as the day before the 6 or 12 month anniversary. It only covers timing, so check the other requirements with our 485 visa eligibility checker.
What counts as your course completion date?
Your course completion date is generally the date your education provider confirms you completed all course requirements, usually when your final results are released. It is not the date of your graduation ceremony or the date on your testamur. Ask your provider for an official completion letter.
If you miss the deadline
If more than 6 months have passed since you completed your course, you generally cannot apply for a 485 based on that course, and there is no standard extension. A further eligible qualification, or another visa, may be an option. Book a consultation as early as possible so we can look at your options before your visa expires.
Frequently asked questions
Is the date from this calculator my exact deadline?
No. It is a planning estimate based on the dates you enter. Your situation may differ, so aim to lodge well before the date shown.
Which date do I use if I completed more than one course?
Use the completion date of the course, or the last course in the combination, that you rely on to meet the Australian study requirement.
Do I need my AFP check result before I apply?
You need evidence that you have applied for an Australian Federal Police check when you lodge. If your check is more than 12 months old, apply for a new one.
What if my English test will be more than 12 months old?
You will need a new English test result from a test taken no more than 12 months before you apply, or lodge before your current result becomes too old.
Can I lodge my 485 after my student visa expires?
You must be in Australia and have held a student visa in the last 6 months. Lodge while you still hold a valid visa, so you get a bridging visa and stay lawful.
Can the 6 month deadline be extended?
No. There is generally no extension or waiver of the 6 month window.
Related guides
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- Medicare eligibility checker
- 485 visa eligibility checker
- Citizenship residence calculator
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Need help with your visa? Book a video consultation with one of our registered migration agents.
