Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, offering world-class education, a high quality of life, and strong career prospects. Many students aim to secure PR in Australia after completing their studies, making transitioning from a graduate visa to permanent residency a crucial step. This guide explores different pathways, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step process for international students who wish to settle permanently in Australia.
Step 1: Understanding the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Most international graduates start with the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) before applying for PR in Australia. This visa allows students to stay and work in Australia for a certain period after graduation, helping them gain local work experience—an essential factor for PR eligibility.
Types of Temporary Graduate Visas:
- Post-Study Work Stream:
- Available for students who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an Australian institution.
- Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the qualification.
- No employer sponsorship is required.
- Graduate Work Stream:
- Designed for students with qualifications relevant to occupations on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Valid for up to 24 months.
- Requires a positive skills assessment from a recognized authority.
Securing a graduate visa is the first step toward PR in Australia, as it provides valuable time to gain skilled work experience and improve your eligibility for permanent residency.
Step 2: Choosing the Right PR Pathway in Australia
Several visa options allow international graduates to transition from a student visa to PR in Australia. Your best choice depends on your qualifications, occupation, and work experience.
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Points-Based PR
- A direct PR visa that does not require employer sponsorship.
- Requires at least 65 points in the PR points test (based on factors like age, education, work experience, and English proficiency).
- Ideal for students whose occupation is listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – State-Sponsored PR
- Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory.
- Grants 5 extra points towards PR eligibility.
- Applicants must live and work in the nominated state for a period after receiving PR.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) – Regional Pathway
- Requires state nomination or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a regional area.
- Provides 15 extra points towards PR eligibility.
- Applicants must live and work in regional Australia for at least 3 years before applying for PR in Australia under the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191).
- Employer-Sponsored PR Visas
If you secure a job in Australia, your employer may sponsor you for PR in Australia under the following categories:
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186): Direct PR pathway for skilled workers.
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482): Work visa leading to PR after 3 years of employment.
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187): Employer-sponsored PR for skilled workers in regional Australia.
Step 3: Meeting PR Eligibility Requirements
To successfully apply for PR in Australia, international graduates must meet specific criteria, including:
- Work Experience: Some PR visas require at least one year of Australian work experience in a relevant occupation.
- Skills Assessment: A positive assessment from a recognized authority for your occupation is mandatory.
- English Language Proficiency: A high IELTS/PTE score is necessary for most PR applications.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet Australia’s health and background check standards.
Step 4: Benefits of PR in Australia
Once you obtain PR in Australia, you can enjoy several benefits, including:
- Unrestricted Work Rights: No limitations on job opportunities or working hours.
- Access to Medicare: Australia’s public healthcare system provides affordable medical care.
- Eligibility for Citizenship: After holding PR for a certain period, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
- Family Sponsorship: PR holders can sponsor family members for visas to join them in Australia.
Final Thoughts
Gaining PR in Australia is a significant milestone for international students, providing long-term stability and career growth. By choosing the right PR pathway, gaining skilled work experience, and meeting eligibility requirements, you can successfully transition from a graduate visa to permanent residency. If you need expert guidance, professional migration consultants can help you navigate the PR process smoothly. For more guidance, visit India’s 1st Hybrid Study Abroad Consultancy-Vision International’s Contact Us page or our FAQs.