Subclass 485 Visa Extensions in 2026: The "New Normal"

In 2026, the landscape for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) has changed significantly. The days of "automatic" two-year extensions for select degrees are over, replaced by a stricter, skills-focused system.

If you are a graduate in Perth or looking to move here, understanding who gets extra time—and who doesn't—is critical for your PR strategy.

Subclass 485 Visa Extensions in 2026: The "New Normal"

The Australian government’s 2025–26 Migration Strategy has streamlined the 485 visa into three distinct streams. The most important takeaway for 2026 is that extensions are now primarily tied to regional study and specific bilateral agreements, rather than just your field of study.

1. Who GETS Extra Time?

• Regional Graduates (The Perth Advantage): Because Perth is classified as a "Category 2" regional city, graduates who studied and lived here can apply for a Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream visa. This grants an additional 1 year of stay.

• Indian Nationals (AI-ECTA): Under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, Indian graduates receive extended stay periods:

  • Bachelor’s (STEM with First Class Honours): 3 years

  • Master’s (All): 3 years

  • PhD: 4 years

• Hong Kong & BNO Passport Holders: You remain eligible for a 5-year stay regardless of your degree type.

• Masters by Research & PhDs: While not an "extension," these qualifications now offer a longer base stay (3 to 4 years) compared to Bachelor’s degrees.

2. Who DOES NOT Get Extra Time?

• The "Select Degree" Cohort: The automatic 2-year extension for specific healthcare, teaching, and IT degrees (introduced in 2023) has officially ended.

• Applicants Over 35: In 2026, the age limit for most 485 applicants has dropped to 35 or under. (Exceptions: Masters by Research, PhD graduates, and HK/BNO holders remain at 50).

• Metro-Only Graduates: If you studied in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane and do not fall into the specific passport categories above, your visa duration is strictly capped (usually 2 years for Bachelor/Master coursework).

485 Visa Durations at a Glance (2026)

Qualification Level	Standard Stay	With Perth Regional Extension
Bachelor Degree	2 Years	3 Years
Master (Coursework)	2 Years	3 Years
Master (Research)	3 Years	4 Years
PhD / Doctoral	3 Years	4 Years
Diploma / Trade (Vocational)	18 Months	N/A

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I still get the 2-year "COVID extension" in 2026? No. The pandemic-era extensions and the "Select Degree" extensions have been scrapped. Extensions are now only available via the Regional Stream or specific international trade agreements.

2. I am 36 years old; can I still apply for a 485 visa? Only if you have completed a Master's by Research or a PhD, or if you hold a Hong Kong/BNO passport. For all other Bachelor's and Master's (coursework) graduates, you must be 35 or under at the time of application.

3. Does Perth count as regional for the extra year? Yes! Perth is a "Category 2" regional area. If you completed your degree at a Perth campus and maintained residency here, you are eligible for the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream (+1 year).

4. What are the English requirements in 2026? The bar has been raised. You now need an overall IELTS 6.5 (with no band lower than 5.5) or equivalent. Crucially, your test results must be less than 12 months old at the time of lodgement.

5. Can I switch from a 485 visa back to a Student Visa? As of 2026, the government has "locked" this pathway. You can no longer switch from a 485 visa to a Student visa while remaining inside Australia (onshore).

Maximise Your Time in Perth

At Leading Edge Migration, we specialise in turning 485 "extra time" into permanent residency outcomes. Whether you need help with your regional extension or planning your next move to a 190 or 491 visa, we are here to help.

👉 Contact Our Perth Office for Assistance 

📍Visit us at Unit 3, 239 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000.

📞 Call us: 08 9221 8472

📩 Email: info@leadingedgemigration.com.au

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances