Can I Apply for an 189 Visa While Working on a 485?

 

Can I apply for an 189 visa while working on a 485? 

This is the most common question asked by our clients. 

And the answer is yes; you can apply for a subclass 189 visa while holding a 485 visa.

But,

You must be eligible to apply for a 189 visa. Moreover, understanding the 189 visa, its requirements, and the transition process from 485 to 189 can significantly increase your success chances. 

 

And that’s what you’ll learn in this blog post. So, let’s get started.

 

What is the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)?

The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia without sponsorship from an employer or a state/territory government. 

 

It’s a points-based visa. It means that you need to score at least 65 points to get this visa. These points are given on the basis of factors like your age, education, English language skills, and work experience.

 

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is designed for international students who have completed their studies in Australia. It allows them to stay in Australia temporarily to gain work experience in their field of study.

 

Now, let’s come to the main question:

 

Can I Apply for an 189 Visa While Working on a 485?

Yes, you can apply for a subclass 189 visa while holding a 485 visa. The key is to ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements for the subclass 189 visa.

 

As above mentioned, this visa is points-based so if you gain valuable work experience on 485, it will contribute to your points score. 

 

The table below shows the points you will get after completing certain years of Australian skilled work. Have a look. 

 

Duration of Australian Skilled Work Experience	Points Awarded
1 to 2 years	5 points
3 to 4 years	10 points
5 to 7 years	15 points

 

Are you Eligible to Apply for 189 Visa in Australia?

To transition from a 485 visa to a 189 visa, you need to meet the eligibility criteria for the 189 visa. Here are the key requirements:

 

1. Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

Ensure your occupation is mentioned on Australia’s relevant skilled occupation list for the 189 visa.

 

2. Skills Assessment

You must have a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.

 

3. Points Test

You must have scored at least 65 points based on factors such as:

• Age: Points are awarded based on age, with younger applicants receiving more points.
• English Proficiency: You need to demonstrate at least competent English, but higher proficiency levels earn more points.
• Work Experience: Both Australian and overseas skilled work experience can earn points.
• Education: Higher qualifications like a bachelor’s degree or higher can earn more points.
• Other Factors: Points can also be earned for factors like studying in Australia or partner skills.

 

4. EOI and Invitation

Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply for the visa.

 

5. Health and Character Requirements

Pass health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.

 

6. Work Experience

Gaining Australian work experience on a 485 visa can significantly enhance your points for the 189 visa application. 

7. Skills and Education 

Ensure your skills and education align with the requirements for your nominated occupation.

 

So, if you meet these requirements, you are eligible to apply for a 189 visa in Australia. 

 

But how can you do it? What is the procedure you need to follow to apply for it?

 

Here is the detailed overview.

 

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for 189 Visa

First, make sure you meet the above-mentioned requirements. After that, proceed towards the next steps. These steps include the following:

 

Step 1: Get a Skills Assessment

 

You need to get your skills assessed by the relevant authority for your occupation. This is important because it proves you have the skills needed for your job in Australia

 

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

 

Create a profile on SkillSelect and submit an Expression of Interest. This tells the Australian government you’re interested in applying for the 189 visa. 

Make sure you include all your details, like skills assessment results, English test scores, qualifications and work experience. 

 

Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply

After submitting your EOI, wait for an invitation to apply for the visa. This can take a few months, so be patient. If your profile is selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa. You will have 60 days to submit your application after receiving the invitation.

 

Step 4: Gather Documents and Apply for the Visa

Once you get an invitation, gather all your documents, like your passport, skills assessment, English test results, and proof of work experience. Then, apply for the visa via ImmiAccount website. 

 

Download the application form and fill it out completely and accurately. Attach all the required documents. Pay the visa application fees and submit it. 

 

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After applying, wait for the visa to be processed. This can take about 8–9 months. You might be contacted for more information during this time.

 

If your application is successful, you’ll receive a visa grant letter. If not, the Department of Home Affairs will notify you about the rejection reasons and whether you can appeal or not. 

 

So, that’s it It might seem like a lot, but following these steps will help you apply for the 189 visa smoothly.

 

Final Thoughts

Applying for an 189 while on a 485 visa is definitely possible. You just have to follow the right procedure. Moreover, timely preparation and understanding of the process significantly enhance your chances of success. 

 

Schedule an online appointment with our experts at The Migration for professional guidance and get help at every step of the process. We’ll make sure that you submit a flawless and decision-ready application. 

 

 

Related Articles:

 

• Is it Hard to Get a 189 Visa in Australia in 2025?
• 189 VS 190 Visa: Which One Suits You?
• Discover 485 Visa New Rules 2025 for International Students

 

FAQs about Can I Apply for an 189 Visa While Working on a 485?

Can I apply for 189 after 485?

Yes, you can apply for the 189 after holding a 485 visa in Australia. So, make sure to use your time on the 485 visa to gain work experience and improve your English skills to meet the 189 visa requirements.

 

Can I apply for PR while on 485?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency (PR) while on a 485 visa. The 485 visa is often used as a first step to apply for PR through visas like the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190).

 

Can I have two visas at the same time in Australia?

Generally, you can’t hold two substantive visas at the same time in Australia. However, you can apply for a new visa while holding a current one, and the new visa can be granted before the old one expires.

 

What visa can I apply for after a 485 visa?

After a 485 visa, you can apply for several visas to achieve permanent residency, including:

 

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): For those with skills in demand and meeting the points test.
• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This visa requires state nomination.
• Employer Sponsored Visas (e.g., Subclass 186): This visa requires employer sponsorship.