485 Visa Extensions in 2026: Who Gets Extra Time (and Who Doesn’t) – Temporary Graduate Visa Guide

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is still one of the most valuable “time buffers” for international graduates in Australia, but in 2026, extra time is not universal. Whether you gain more time depends on your stream, your study location, your passport cohort, and whether you meet updated eligibility rules (especially English and age).

A key mindset shift for 2026: “I’m eligible” is not the same as “I can extend.” This guide breaks down the extension pathways clearly, who benefits, who doesn’t, and what to do next.

What counts as a “485 extension” in 2026?

A “485 extension” typically refers to one of these scenarios:

• A second 485 visa under the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream (regional extension) — adds 1–2 extra years for eligible regional graduates.
• Longer base stay periods for specific cohorts (e.g., Hong Kong/BNO passport holders can have 5 years in relevant streams).
• Country-specific arrangements (e.g., Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement commitments on post-study work stay periods).

Your 485 time options at a glance (2026)

485 streams and how long you can stay (plus the “extra time” lever)

Important: You must apply for the correct stream and you can’t change streams after you apply.

Who gains time in 2026 – and who doesn’t?

“Do I get extra time?” (simple eligibility map)

Can I “create” an extension by moving regional after graduation?

This is one of the most searched questions in 2026, and the practical answer is:

Regional benefits are tied to your regional study institution and your regional residence as a 485 holder-moving later doesn’t automatically rewrite your eligibility. The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream is specifically for graduates who held an eligible 485 and whose degree was from an institution located in a regional area, and the stay length depends on regional study location and regional residence.

Also, Home Affairs’ regional guidance says if you receive an additional year(s), you’re expected to remain in a regional area for the duration of the visa.

What “regional extension” actually rewards in 2026

It rewards a profile that looks like this:

• Regional campus/institution at the time of qualifying study
• Regional living pattern (not a last-minute address change)
• Clean evidence trail (leases, bills, work location, etc.)

The practical 485 extension action plan (without wasting months)

Extension planning checklist (what to do first, second, third)

Also note: the 485 visa allows you to work unrestricted hours in any sector, which is why it’s often used strategically to strengthen skilled employment evidence.

Case study

Scenario A: Gains time

A Masters graduate completes their eligible degree at a regional institution, then holds a Post-Higher Education Work stream 485 and lives in a regional area while on that visa. They later apply for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream and gain additional time (1–2 years depending on category), enough runway to build stronger work evidence and pursue state nomination.

Scenario B: Doesn’t gain time
A Bachelor graduate studied in a metro campus and expects an automatic “extra 2 years” because their degree used to be on the old select list. In 2026, that extension is no longer available, so their “extra time” plan collapses unless they pivot to a different lawful pathway.

Where 485 time fits in 2026 PR planning (what to do with the time)

A 485 extension is valuable only if it converts into outcomes: skilled employment evidence, stronger English, partner points/skills, and nomination readiness.

And for some graduates, the next step can be employer-sponsored options. Study Australia notes eligible Temporary Graduate visa holders who meet work experience requirements may be able to apply for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) while still in Australia.

Aussizz Group has helped 200,000+ applicants towards their Australian dreams-so the goal is not just “more time”, but “better strategy with the time”.

Disclaimer

Invitation outcomes and pathway feasibility vary by individual profile and policy settings. This article is general information and reflects common patterns observed through applicants guided through Aussizz Group. It is not a guarantee of visa grant or extension, and requirements can change. Always verify your eligibility against the Department of Home Affairs requirements before lodging.

FAQs

Q1) Is the 2-year “select degree” post-study extension still available in 2026?

No. The extra post-study work years that applied to certain “select degrees” ended, so it should not be used as an extension plan in 2026. If you were relying on it, you’ll need an alternative strategy (regional second 485 if eligible, nomination, or employer-sponsored options).

Q2) Can I still apply for the 485 Replacement stream in 2026?

No. Home Affairs confirms the Temporary Graduate (Replacement stream) visa is closed to new primary applications from 1 July 2024. If you missed that window, you cannot use this stream to “recover time.”

Q3) How many extra years do I get with the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream?

It’s between 1 and 2 years, and the exact length depends on the regional location of your study institution and the regional area you live in while holding your eligible 485 visa.

Q4) Do I automatically qualify for the second 485 if I move to a regional area now?

Not automatically. The second 485 is tied to having a degree from a regional institution and meeting the stream’s conditions; moving regional later doesn’t guarantee eligibility. The stay length also depends on regional study + regional residence factors.

Q5) What English score do I need for a 485 in 2026?

For Temporary Graduate visas, the minimum increased to IELTS 6.5 overall (or equivalent) with at least 5.5 in each component, and your test must be from within 1 year before your application.

Q6) Is the 485 age limit stricter now?

The general rule shown in the Study Australia guide is 35 years or under when you apply, and it notes exceptions apply. If age is close, timing becomes critical.

Q7) Can I change my 485 stream after applying?

No. The visa guidance is clear that you must apply for your eligible stream, and it is not possible to change streams after you apply.

Q8) Do Hong Kong / BNO passport holders get longer 485 time?

Yes, in many cases. The guide notes Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders may stay for 5 years in relevant 485 streams, and they also have different English requirement settings.

Q9) Are 485 holders allowed to work full-time?

Yes. The Temporary Graduate visa guide states you can work unrestricted hours in any sector, which is why many graduates use 485 time to strengthen skilled employment outcomes.

Q10) What should I do if I don’t qualify for a 485 extension?

Treat it as a strategy pivot, not a dead end: check whether you can still optimise points, target a state pathway, or move toward employer sponsorship where eligible. The most important step is to stop relying on discontinued “extensions” and plan using current settings.

Contact Aussizz Group to get your 485 Strategy right!