Start your Business with 485 Visa: How to Start your Entrepreneurship Journey in Australia

What is the Subclass 485 Visa?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed eligible studies in Australia to live, work, and study temporarily.

There are two main streams:

• Post-Higher Education Work Stream
• Post-Vocational Work Stream

Importantly, this visa provides unrestricted work rights—meaning you can take up full-time employment or start a business in Australia.

This freedom makes the 485 visa a powerful launchpad for entrepreneurship and side hustles.

Why the 485 Visa is the Ideal Launchpad for a Side Hustle in Australia

From Study Mode to Business Mode

While on a student visa (Subclass 500), you were limited to 48 hours of work per fortnight. But on a 485 visa, those restrictions are gone, you can dedicate your time fully to employment or business pursuits.

Australia’s Entrepreneurial Environment

Australia encourages start-ups through accessible ABN registration, tax support, business mentorships, and small-business grants. You can legally register your business and operate as a sole trader, partnership, or company.

Why a Side Hustle Makes Sense

• You already understand local markets and culture.
• A side hustle lets you test your idea with minimal risk.
• A profitable venture can later evolve into a PR pathway.

Key Steps to Start a Side Hustle on Your 485 Visa

Step 1 – Check Eligibility & Duration

Confirm your 485 visa stream, conditions, and expiry date. Ensure you remain compliant with Australian immigration rules.

Step 2 – Choose and Register Your Business Structure

• Select from sole trader, partnership, or company.
• Register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Tax File Number (TFN).
• Apply for required permits or licences on business.gov.au.

Step 3 – Validate Your Business Idea

Use local insights, alumni networks, and community groups to test your product-market fit.

Step 4 – Stay Legally Compliant

Follow taxation, payroll, and superannuation regulations. Maintain transparent records to support any future PR or business visa applications.

Step 5 – Plan for Long-Term Growth

Your 485 visa is temporary. Build business credibility and plan ahead for transition to a Skilled Migration (189/190/491) visa.

Student Visa vs 485 Visa vs Skilled Migration Visa

Practical Tips for Success During Your 485 Period

• Register early for your ABN and keep all business documentation ready.
• Balance time between job commitments and your business goals.
• Start small — test ideas before scaling.
• Network locally through university incubators and small-business events in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
• Plan your next visa step at least six months before your 485 expires.
• Consult experts — Aussizz Group can connect you with migration and business advisors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I legally start a business on a 485 Visa?

Yes. The Subclass 485 visa allows full-time work and business activities. You can operate as a sole trader, register an ABN, and run your venture legally.

Q2. Do I need to register an ABN or business name?

Yes. Anyone doing business in Australia must obtain an ABN and, where applicable, register a business name through ASIC. It ensures tax compliance and professional credibility.

Q3. Will starting a business affect my visa or PR eligibility?

No, provided you stay compliant. While a 485 visa is temporary, running a legitimate business can strengthen your profile for skilled migration or business-innovation visas later.

Q4. What happens when my 485 visa expires?

You’ll need to either transition to another visa (such as Skilled Migration (189/190/491)) or transfer/wind up your business. Planning this 6–12 months before expiry is recommended.

Q5. What mistakes should I avoid?

• Not registering for an ABN or paying taxes.
• Over-committing without validating your idea.
• Ignoring visa timelines or future pathways.
• Failing to maintain documentation for compliance.

Let’s Get You Business-Ready!

Your 485 visa is more than a temporary work permit—it’s a launchpad for your entrepreneurial journey in Australia.
Turn your passion project into a profitable venture and set yourself up for long-term success.

Book a consultation with Aussizz Group today to map your visa timeline, business goals, and future residency plan.

With Aussizz Group’s expertise—trusted by more than 180,000 applicants—you can turn this opportunity into a stepping-stone toward long-term success and residency in Australia.