Australia's Department of Home Affairs has confirmed a significant expansion of eligibility for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): the maximum age limit has been raised from 45 to 50 years. The change is effective for applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026 and applies to all streams of the 485 visa.
What is Changing
- Previous age limit: Must be under 45 years at time of application
- New age limit (from March 2026): Must be under 50 years
- Applies to: Graduate Stream and Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
- Duration of visa: Unchanged (2–4 years depending on qualification and study location)
Who Benefits
This change primarily benefits:
- Working professionals in their mid-40s who pursue postgraduate degrees in Australia for career advancement
- Healthcare professionals — nursing, aged care, and allied health graduates aged 45–50 who were previously ineligible despite being in high-demand occupations
- Skilled trade graduates from TAFE programs in their late 40s
For Indian students, this is particularly relevant for Executive MBA students, postgraduate nursing students, and professionals pursuing master's programs later in their careers.
Key Application Information
- Apply for the 485 visa within 6 months of completing your Australian course
- You must be in Australia when you apply
- A skills assessment is required for some program types
- Subclass 485 cannot be granted if you have held one previously
Are you in your late 40s and considering a postgraduate program in Australia? Read our complete Australia guide or speak to our Australia specialist.