Your 485 Visa Is Ending and You Have No Next Visa: Your Options

For many graduates, the 485 Temporary Graduate visa is the bridge to a skilled or employer sponsored visa. But sometimes the end date arrives with no invitation, no sponsor and no other visa lined up. This guide focuses on staying lawful and keeping your options open in the final months. For longer term planning, see our guide to PR pathways after graduation.

What you can still apply for in Australia

Option	When it may suit	Watch for
Skills in Demand (482) visa	An employer will sponsor you	Sponsorship, nomination and salary rules
494 regional employer visa	A regional employer will sponsor you	Skills assessment and 3 years’ experience usually needed
190 or 491 skilled visa	You receive a state nomination and invitation	Invitations are competitive
189 skilled visa	You receive an invitation	High points needed
Partner visa (820)	You are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, PR or eligible New Zealander	Relationship requirements
Second 485 (regional)	You studied and lived in a regional area	Strict regional living and work requirements
Visitor visa	You need a short time before leaving	Must be a genuine visitor. No work

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Is a second 485 possible?

Most graduates get only one 485 in the Post-Higher Education Work stream. A further 485 is possible if your first one was based on study in a regional area, and you lived only in that area during your study and for at least 2 years before applying, and worked or studied only there. You must still live there when it is decided. Holders of Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passports, and graduates of research masters or doctorates, have a higher age limit. See 485 extension eligibility and the 485 age limit.

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Why student visas are off the table onshore

Since 1 July 2024, 485 holders cannot lodge a student visa application in Australia. If further study is your plan, you must apply from outside Australia and be outside when it is granted. See applying from outside Australia and ending visa hopping.

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Timing: start 6 months out

• 6 months before expiry: review your skills assessment, English score and points, and talk to employers about sponsorship.
• 3 months before: lodge any visa you are eligible for. Employer nominations can take time.
• Before expiry: lodge a valid application so a bridging visa can be granted. Do not let your 485 expire without a plan.
• If there is no option: book travel to leave before your visa ends.

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If your 485 has already ended

Without a substantive or bridging visa you are unlawful. Your options narrow quickly, and staying more than 28 days after your visa ends can lead to an exclusion period. A Bridging Visa E can help you stay lawful while you arrange departure. See re-entry bans and options if you overstay.

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What you should do now

• Check your expiry date: and work back 6 months.
• Talk to employers early: sponsorship takes time.
• Lodge before expiry: a bridging visa keeps you lawful.
• Leave on time if needed: to protect future applications.