Best Time to Apply for TR-485 Visa: 2025 Guide for International Graduates

Knowing the best time to apply for TR 485 visa can make or break your chances of staying in Australia after graduation. Many graduates miss the deadline or apply without key documents, leading to visa refusal. This guide outlines the timing requirements, key deadlines, and how to prepare a decision-ready application. If you're graduating soon, read this before lodging your Temporary Graduate Visa application.

Understanding the Best Time to Apply for TR 485 Visa

The Department of Home Affairs requires that you lodge your 485 visa application within six months of your course completion date. This refers to the official date your education provider confirms that you've met all academic requirements—not your graduation ceremony.

Additionally, it's strongly recommended that you apply before your current Student visa expires. Doing so ensures that you will receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA), which allows you to remain in Australia lawfully and continue working while your application is processed.

Why Timing Is Critical for the TR 485 Visa

The 6-Month Rule

The six-month window begins on the date your completion letter is issued. Lodging after this date can result in an invalid application, even if you were unaware of the deadline.

Your Student Visa Expiry

If your Student visa expires before you lodge your TR 485 application, you may become unlawful unless you apply for another visa. It's best to submit your application at least one week before your Student visa expires to allow enough time for Bridging Visa activation.

Required Documents Before Lodging

You should not lodge your application unless you have all the required documents. These include:

• Completion letter and official academic transcript

• Valid passport

• Proof of Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)

• Australian Federal Police (AFP) clearance issued within the last 12 months

• English test results (e.g. IELTS, PTE, TOEFL), if required

• Skills assessment (Graduate Work Stream only)

• Documents for any dependants (if included in the application)

Lodging an incomplete application may lead to refusal or significant delays in processing.

Changes Affecting TR 485 Visa Applicants in 2025

Age Limit Reduced

As of 1 July 2024, most applicants must be under 35 years old at the time of lodgement. Exceptions apply only to Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders.

Increased English Requirements

From 23 March 2024, applicants must meet new English standards:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 (minimum 5.5 per band)

• Or equivalent score in TOEFL, PTE, OET, or Cambridge

Application Fee Increases

From 1 February 2025, the application fees are:

• Primary applicant: $2,235

• Additional applicant over 18: $1,115

• Additional applicant under 18: $560

All fees are payable at the time of lodgement and are non-refundable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using graduation day instead of course completion date Use the date on your completion letter to calculate your 6-month window.

• Not having OVHC at the time of application Your cover must start from the date of application, not your Student visa expiry.

• AFP clearance older than 12 months The AFP certificate must be valid at the time of lodgement.

• Leaving Australia before lodging If your Student visa is cancelled while overseas, you may lose the chance to apply onshore.

Apply at the Best Time for TR 485 Visa with Expert Help

The best time to apply for TR-485 visa is within six months of course completion and while your Student visa is still valid. But just as important as timing is lodging a complete and accurate application.

At RACC Migration & Education Services, our Melbourne-based team has helped thousands of international graduates apply for the TR 485 visa successfully. We’ll check your eligibility, help gather your documents, and ensure you lodge at the right time. Book a free consultation today to secure your future in Australia and avoid common mistakes that lead to refusal.

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