How Long Does a TR 485 Visa Take in 2026?

The Department of Home Affairs does not publish a fixed processing time, they release historical data based on completed applications.

 

Based on current trends, 75% of applications are processed within 3 to 4 months, and 90% within 5 to 6 months. Simple applications with no additional checks can be processed in a few weeks. Complex cases can exceed 6 months.

Build your timeline around the 90th percentile, not the average. There is no guaranteed timeframe.

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485 Visa Processing Time by Stream

Graduate Work Stream

Typical processing time: 1 to 3 months. This stream requires a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. If your assessment is already finalised and lodged with your application, processing moves faster.

 

Delays happen when the assessing authority takes longer than expected or the Department needs to verify your nominated occupation. Not sure which stream applies to you? TR 485 Visa Streams — Explained

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Post-Study Work Stream

Typical processing time: 2 to 4 months. No skills assessment required, but the Department verifies your qualification against the CRICOS record. A mismatch between your study record and what is registered pauses processing while they seek clarification.

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Second Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW) Stream

Typical processing time: 2 to 4 months. This extension stream has additional eligibility conditions, including regional study requirements. Applications can take longer if the Department needs to verify study location evidence.

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Learn more: How to Get the PHEW Extension | Hobart 485 Extension

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What Causes TR 485 Processing Delays?

Most delays come down to incomplete applications, not the Department's workload. Common triggers include missing documents at lodgement, health examinations not booked in time, expired English test results, and inconsistent personal details across documents.

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The most avoidable mistake: waiting to book your health examination. Panel physician appointments have their own lead time. Book yours before or immediately after you lodge.

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What Happens While Your Application Is Being Processed?

Once you lodge your 485 application, you receive a Bridging Visa A that lets you remain in Australia legally while the Department assesses your case. Your bridging visa carries the same work and study rights as your previous student visa in most cases.

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Do not leave Australia while on a Bridging Visa A unless you hold a Bridging Visa B, leaving without one cancels your bridging visa and can affect your 485 application. TR 485 Bridging Visa — What You Need to Know. If your application is refused: TR 485 Refused — What to Do Next

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How to Check Your 485 Visa Processing Status

Track your application through ImmiAccount, where you can see the current status and any requests from the Department. For general timeframe estimates, use the Home Affairs global processing times tool and search for subclass 485.

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If your application exceeds the published 90th percentile with no update, submit a follow-up inquiry through ImmiAccount.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my TR 485 application is being processed?

Yes. Once you lodge your application, you receive a Bridging Visa A that carries the same work rights as your previous student visa. You can continue working while the Department processes your application.

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What happens if my 485 visa takes longer than expected?

Your Bridging Visa A remains valid until a decision is made, so your legal status in Australia is not affected by processing delays. Keep checking ImmiAccount for any requests from the Department and respond immediately if they ask for additional information.

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Does applying earlier make my 485 process faster?

Not directly — the Department processes applications in order of lodgement, but applying early gives you more time to gather complete documents and complete your health examination before lodging. A complete application at lodgement is the biggest factor in avoiding delays.

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Can I leave Australia while my 485 is being processed?

Only if you hold a Bridging Visa B. Leaving Australia on a Bridging Visa A without a BVB cancels your bridging visa and can affect your 485 application. Apply for a BVB through ImmiAccount before you travel.

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What if the Department asks for more information?

You will receive a Section 56 notice through ImmiAccount with a deadline to respond, usually 28 days. Your application is paused until you reply. Respond as quickly as possible with everything requested — partial responses extend the delay further.

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Key Takeaways

Most TR 485 applications are processed in 3 to 5 months. Graduate Work Stream applications are generally faster if your skills assessment is already complete. Health exams and police clearances are the most common avoidable delay triggers.

 

You receive a Bridging Visa A at lodgement, which keeps you legal while you wait. Respond to any Departmental request immediately, delays in responding pause your application entirely.

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