At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we’re committed to helping international graduates transition smoothly into their post-study careers in Australia. In this recent success story, we assisted a client from Nepal who, along with her husband, was granted a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485 — Post-Higher Education Work) visa just 40 days after lodgement.
The Challenge
Our client had recently completed her Australian qualification and wanted to remain in Australia to gain valuable work experience. She also wished to include her husband — who was in Australia with her — as a secondary applicant on the same visa application. The client was on a student visa Subclass 500 which was valid at the time of application.
Processing times for the subclass 485 visa can vary widely, and incomplete documentation or missing evidence often leads to lengthy delays. Our goal was to ensure a decision-ready application that would be processed efficiently and without unnecessary requests for further information.
Our Approach
We began by confirming the client’s eligibility under the Post-Higher Education Work stream, ensuring all key criteria were met, including qualification, English language ability, and visa history.
From there, we prepared a comprehensive and well-structured application that included:
- Detailed relationship evidence demonstrating the genuine and continuing nature of the marriage;
- Certified supporting documents such as academic transcripts, passports, health insurance, and marriage certificate;
- Clear, complete documentation uploaded at lodgement to meet the Department’s evidentiary requirements upfront.
By submitting a complete and decision-ready application through ImmiAccount, we minimised any chance of delays or further document requests.
Furthermore, health checks were requested by the Department upfront.
The Outcome
The application was lodged on 27 August 2025 and granted on 6 October 2025 — an impressive turnaround of just 40 days, well within the Department’s standard processing timeframe.
Both the primary and secondary applicants were granted Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visas, valid until 6 October 2027, with multiple entry rights for travel.
What This Case Shows
✅ Well-prepared applications lead to faster results. Submitting all evidence upfront gives the Department confidence to finalise quickly.
✅ Including a spouse is straightforward with the right guidance. When both applicants are in Australia and documents are well-organised, processing can remain smooth.
✅ Post-study pathways are achievable. Graduates can continue building their careers and lives in Australia without interruption.
Thinking of applying for a 485 visa — alone or with your partner?
Our team at Rocket & Ash Immigration Law specialises in helping international graduates secure their post-study work visas quickly and confidently.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 485 Graduate Visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional.