1. The “Duration of Stay” Factor

The Department of Home Affairs determines health requirements based on the length of your intended stay and your country of citizenship.

• Student Visa (Subclass 500): Typically covers the duration of your course (e.g., 2–3 years).
• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): In 2026, these are granted for 2 to 5 years depending on your stream (Post-Higher Education vs. Post-Vocational).
• The Difference: A longer stay often triggers a move from “Temporary” to “Permanent” health criteria levels, which may include more comprehensive blood work (like kidney function/eGFR tests) for certain age groups that a shorter student visa might have skipped.

2. Occupation-Specific Screening

This is the most common reason for “extra” tests. On a Student Visa, you were primarily a student. On a 485 visa, you are a worker.

• Healthcare & Childcare: If you intend to work as a nurse, doctor, or teacher (occupations common for 485 applicants), you will be flagged for additional screening.
• The “Extra” Tests: You may be required to undergo Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV blood tests. If you didn’t do these for your student visa (because you were only studying), you must do them now for the 485.

3. Changes in “Significant Cost” Thresholds

In 2026, the Significant Cost Threshold (the amount of medical spending the government deems “too high”) is strictly applied to 485 applicants.

• Student Visa: Generally viewed as lower risk because students have restricted work rights and a fixed end date.
• 485 Visa: Because it is a bridge to permanent residency, the Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) looks more closely at whether your health condition might cost the Australian taxpayer more than $86,000 over the next 5 years.

4. Mandatory Insurance Swap (Condition 8501)

While not a “medical test,” the health requirement for the 485 is legally different in 2026:

• OSHC is NOT enough: Your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) only satisfies student visa rules.
• OVHC is required: To meet the 8501 condition for a 485, you must switch to Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC). Applying for a 485 with only OSHC is one of the top reasons for immediate “Request for Information” (RFI) delays in 2026.

Comparison Table: 500 vs. 485 Health Check