Don’t Risk a Refusal: The 2026 Subclass 485 Visa Document Checklist Every Graduate Needs

So, you’ve finished your studies in Australia—congratulations! Now comes the most critical step: securing your Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). In 2026, the Department of Home Affairs is stricter than ever. One expired English test or a missing police receipt can lead to an instant visa refusal, costing you thousands of dollars and your future in Australia.

As the best migration agents Perth has to offer, Leading Edge Migration has created this "Decision-Ready" checklist to help you lodge with 100% confidence.

The "Big 3" Changes You Must Know in 2026

The rules have shifted. If you haven't checked the latest updates, you might be ineligible before you even start:

1. The Age Cut-off: You must now be 35 or younger (with limited exceptions for PhDs and specific passport holders).

2. The 1-Year Rule: Your English test (PTE/IELTS) must be less than 12 months old.

3. The Stream Rebrand: * Post-Higher Education Work Stream (for University Graduates)

   • Post-Vocational Education Work Stream (for Trade/Diploma Graduates)

A graduate in a cap and gown stands with a thoughtful expression in an elegant hall, holding a diploma amidst rows of white chairs, embodying a moment of reflection and achievement.

The Essential Subclass 485 Visa Document Checklist

1. Identity & Personal Proof

• Current Passport: High-resolution color scan of the bio-data page.

• Birth Certificate: Must show both parents' names.

• Passport Photos: Two recent digitally scanned passport-sized photos.

• Name Change Evidence: If applicable (e.g., Marriage Certificate or Deed Poll).

2. Academic Requirements (The "6-Month" Rule)

You must apply within 6 months of your course completion date.

• Official Completion Letter: Must state the course start and end dates and the date you met all academic requirements.

• Academic Transcripts: A complete record of your units and grades.

• CRICOS Evidence: Ensure your course was CRICOS-registered and met the 92-week study requirement.

  
  

3. English Language Proficiency (Updated 2026 Standards)

Unless you hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland, you must provide:

• English Test Results: Taken within the last 12 months.

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each band).

  • PTE Academic: 57 overall (minimum 43L, 48R, 51W, 42S).

  • Note: "At-home" or "Online" versions are not accepted.

    
    

4. Health & Character Safeguards

• Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check: You must provide evidence that you have applied for a National Police Check (Complete Disclosure) before the day you lodge your visa.

• Overseas Police Clearances: For any country (other than Australia) where you spent 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

• Health Insurance (OVHC): Evidence of Overseas Visitor Health Cover. This must be active from the day your Student Visa expires.

5. Stream-Specific Documents

• Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: * - Provisional Skills Assessment: Evidence that you have applied for a skills assessment in an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

• Post-Higher Education Work Stream: * - No skills assessment required, but your degree must be a Bachelor, Master, or PhD.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Many applicants face a "Section 501" refusal because of simple timing errors. To stay safe:

1. Don't Wait for Graduation: Your 6-month window starts from the date on your Completion Letter, not your graduation ceremony.

2. Check Your Insurance: Standard Student OSHC is not enough for a 485 visa; you must switch to OVHC before applying.

3. The AFP Receipt: You do not need the final certificate to lodge, but you must have the receipt showing you applied before the visa lodgment time.

Expert Guidance for Your 485 Visa in Perth

The Subclass 485 visa is more than just a work permit—it is your bridge to Permanent Residency. Navigating the "Genuine Student" requirements and points-based migration system in 2026 requires a professional strategy.

Whether you need an education agent in Perth to plan your next qualification or the most reliable visa consultant to handle your 485 application, Leading Edge Migration is here to help.

Contact Leading Edge Migration for a 485 Visa Assessment

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