Graduating from an Australian university or college is an exciting milestone and the PSW in Australia makes the transition from student life to professional life much easier. The Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, officially called the Temporary Graduate Visa subclass 485, offers international graduates a valuable chance to stay in Australia temporarily, live, work, and gain important work experience without needing employer sponsorship.

Whether you want to build your career, explore different job opportunities, or eventually apply for permanent residency, the PSW in Australia acts as a vital bridge connecting your studies to your future career down under.

In this updated 2025 guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about eligibility, application process, visa duration, and benefits helping you confidently plan your post-study journey in Australia.

What is the PSW Visa in Australia?

• PSW Full Form in Australia: Post-Study Work visa.

• Visa Subclass: 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa).

• Streams Available:
  • Post-Study Work Stream: For those who recently graduated from an Australian higher education institution.

• Graduate Work Stream: For graduates with skills related to jobs on the skilled occupation list, typically from vocational study.

• Main Purpose: To let graduates live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after finishing their degree.

Who is Eligible for the PSW Visa in Australia?

To qualify for the PSW visa, you must:

• Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree from an Australian institution.

• Have studied on a valid student visa in Australia.

• Meet English language requirements (such as an IELTS or similar recognized test).

• Meet health and character requirements.

• Apply within 6 months of completing your course.

• Special Note for 2025: Some regional graduates and those with specific qualifications (especially STEM, nursing, and teaching) may qualify for extended stays or special pathways. Check current rules before applying.

PSW Visa Duration and Validity in Australia

Your PSW visa duration depends on your qualification level:

Qualification	Duration
Bachelor’s degree	2 years
Masters by coursework	2 years
Masters by research	3 years
Doctoral degree (PhD)	4 years

• Some graduates in select fields or regional locations may qualify for a 4 years PSW in Australia even with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, depending on government update

• Extensions: In certain cases (especially regional study), you might be eligible for a 1-2 year extension.

Source:  post study work

Benefits of the PSW Visa in Australia

• Work Full-Time: No employer sponsorship needed.
• Gain Valuable Experience: Gives you Australian work skills, boosting your future job opportunities.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR): Work experience gained may help you meet criteria for PR.
• Travel Flexibility: Enter and leave Australia freely during the visa period.
• Industry Opportunities: Especially beneficial for Master’s graduates in IT, healthcare, engineering, hospitality, and more.

PSW Visa Application Process 2025

Navigating the PSW visa process in 2025 can be confusing but don’t worry. This step-by-step guide will walk you through each stage to ensure a smooth and successful application.

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm degree completion and other requirements.
2. Prepare Documents:
   • Confirmation of Completion (CoC) from your Australian university.
   • Valid Passport.
   • English Language Test results.
   • Proof of health insurance and completed health exams.
   • Character documents (police clearance).
3. Apply Online: Submit your application through the Department of Home Affairs website.
4. Pay Application Fee: Check the latest fees as they can change annually.
5. Biometrics & Health Checks: Complete requested checks if asked.
6. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary; typically 4-6 months.
7. Visa Grant Notification: Start working or job-hunting in Australia.

Quick Tips:

• Apply within 6 months of finishing your course.
• Double-check your documents and details for a smooth approval.

Common Questions & Myths about the PSW Visa

Q1: Is PSW available in Australia after a master’s degree?
Yes, master’s graduates (by coursework or research) are eligible for the PSW visa 2 years for coursework, 3 years for research.

Q2: What’s the difference between the Post-Study Work stream and Graduate Work stream?

• Post-Study Work stream is for higher education (Bachelors/Masters/PhD) graduates.
• Graduate Work stream is for those with vocational qualifications linked to the skilled occupation list.

Q3: Can you apply for PR after the PSW visa?

Yes, you can use your Australian work experience to meet requirements for various PR visas.

Q4: What happens if your PSW visa expires?
You need another valid visa to stay, or you must leave Australia. Plan for PR pathways early.

Q5: What are the stay-back options in Australia after graduation?
Options include PSW, further study, skilled visas, or employer sponsorship.

Career Opportunities and Industry Demand for PSW Holders

Many international graduates with a PSW in Australia find jobs in:

• IT and Computer Science
• Healthcare (Nursing, Allied Health)
• Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Education and Teaching

Transitioning from PSW Visa to Permanent Residency

Pathways to PR include:

• Points-Based Visas: Such as subclass 189, 190, or 491.
• Employer Sponsorship: Subclass 186 (ENS visa), or similar.
• State Nomination: For those in demand in certain regions.
• Regional Pathways: Additional points for regional work/study.

Your PSW visa experience can earn you more points and job references, which are vital for a strong PR application.

Tips:

• Keep your skills assessment up to date.
• Apply for PR early to avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion

The PSW visa in Australia is a must-know option for anyone studying or planning to study there. It gives you real work experience, supports your PR journey, and offers flexibility to explore career paths in Australia. Plan ahead, stay updated with policy changes, and always check the official immigration site or get advice from a qualified migration agent.

If you’re a Nepali student looking for expert guidance on your Australia study and visa process, BBC Global Education can help you with everything from course selection to visa applications and post-study work planning. Contact BBC Global Education today to make your Australian education journey smooth, stress-free, and successful.

FAQ 

1. What is the Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa in Australia?

The PSW visa, officially called the Temporary Graduate Visa subclass 485, allows international students who have completed eligible Australian qualifications to live and work in Australia temporarily after graduation.

2. Who is eligible for the PSW visa in Australia?

You must have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree from a CRICOS-registered Australian institution, apply within 6 months of finishing your course, and meet health, character, and English language requirements.

3. How long can I stay in Australia on the PSW visa?

The stay period depends on your qualification: 2 years for Bachelor’s and Masters by coursework, 3 years for Masters by research, and 4 years for PhD graduates.

4. Can I work full-time on the PSW visa, and are there any restrictions?

Yes, you can work full-time for any employer with no sponsorship or job restrictions during the visa validity period.

5. How soon after finishing my studies should I apply for the PSW visa?

You must apply within 6 months of completing your course; late applications are not accepted.

6. Can I apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after my PSW visa?

Yes, the work experience gained on the PSW visa can help you meet eligibility requirements for various PR visas like subclass 189, 190, or employer-sponsored visas.