485 · Post-Higher Education stream
The 485 isn't automatic, and the fee is now AUD 5,750. Before you lodge, get a second opinion from a team whose cases are lodged by a registered migration agent.
Four quick details. Then we'll continue on WhatsApp, so you get an answer faster.
The 6-month clock
You generally need to apply within 6 months of your course completion date, and be in Australia when you lodge. Miss it and this pathway usually closes.
The health exam and police check take their own time, so it pays to start before the clock gets tight.
months to apply
from your course completion date (usually the date on your completion letter, not the ceremony)
The cost
That's the main applicant's government charge, before police checks, health exams, English tests and insurance. At this price, a refused application is an expensive mistake.
Source: Study Australia / Department of Home Affairs announcements, March and July 2026. Always check the current fee on the Home Affairs website before lodging.
Before you hit submit
After you lodge, it's hard to fix what's missing. The order matters.
How it works
Registered migration agent MARN 1574327. You can check any agent's registration on the official OMARA register at mara.gov.au.
Clients
“…they were clear, patient, and always available to answer my questions, which made the whole experience much smoother and less stressful. Their guidance and attention to detail gave me a lot of confidence at every stage of the process. I would definitely recommend this agency to anyone looking for trustworthy migration advice in Australia.”
“I am very happy that our visa was approved. … thank God it was worth the wait…”
“…the acknowledge and expertise that they showed to me make the process efficient and quickly. I got my new visa in shorter time than expected. Thanks team!”
“I am going to celebrate almost 4 years in Australia, … David, my agent here in Melbourne collaborates with me with everything I need, the rest of the team is also excellent”
“…They have guided me through two renovations, making everything smooth and successful. … I couldn’t be happier with the results.”
“I want to thank an excellent team, … thank you for your incredible work. If you have the opportunity to do your process with them, don't waste it!!”
“I had a great experience with the agency. … I really appreciated his support and would definitely recommend his services.”
“I am very happy with his services and results. …”
FAQ
Generally from your course completion date, usually the date on your official completion letter, not the graduation ceremony.
For the Post-Higher Education stream, generally up to 2 years for a bachelor's or masters by coursework and up to 3 years for masters by research or PhD.
Many people ask for a second opinion before lodging. It's quick, and there's no pressure to switch.
Sending your details and starting a WhatsApp chat doesn't commit you to anything. If you'd like us to handle your application, we'll explain any fees clearly before you decide.
For this stream you generally need to be in Australia when you lodge.
Usually not. You'll normally need overseas visitor health cover (OVHC) that meets the visa condition.
No, the Post-Higher Education stream doesn't require one.
We only use them to contact you about your 485. We don't sell or share them.