Many international students aspire to stay in Australia after completing their studies. This guide provides insights into post-study work visa options, pathways to permanent residency (PR), eligibility criteria, and application processes.

1. Understanding Post-Study Visa Options

After graduation, international students can apply for visas that allow them to gain work experience, enhance their skills, and transition toward permanent residency.

1.1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Subclass 485 Visa is a common pathway for graduates who wish to work in Australia after completing their studies. It has two main streams:

1.1.1. Graduate Work Stream

• For students who have completed a Diploma, Trade Qualification, or Bachelor’s Degree related to a skilled occupation on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Valid for up to 18 months (or up to 24 months for eligible Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders).
• Requires a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.

1.1.2. Post-Study Work Stream

• For students who have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree from an Australian institution.
• Duration varies:
  • Bachelor’s degree: 2 years
  • Master’s degree: 3 years
  • PhD graduates: 4 years
• Does not require a skills assessment.

1.2. Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476)

• For engineering graduates from recognised overseas universities.
• Allows work in Australia for up to 18 months.
• No employer sponsorship required.

2. Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia

Graduates can apply for PR through various skilled migration programs.

2.1. General Skilled Migration (GSM) Pathway

The GSM program includes visas that allow skilled workers, including graduates, to apply for PR based on their occupation, skills, and experience.

2.1.1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

• A points-tested PR visa that does not require state nomination or employer sponsorship.
• Applicants must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Requires a minimum score in the Points Test, considering factors like age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and Australian study.

2.1.2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

• A state-sponsored PR visa that requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
• Applicants must have an occupation on the State or Territory Occupation List.
• Requires commitment to living and working in the nominating state for a specified period.

2.1.3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

• A regional visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in designated regional areas.
• Requires nomination by a state government or sponsorship by an eligible family member living in regional Australia.
• Valid for 5 years, with a pathway to PR through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa after living and working in the regional area for at least 3 years.

3. Employer-Sponsored PR Pathways

International graduates can obtain PR through employer sponsorship if they secure a job with an Australian company willing to sponsor them.

3.1. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

• A direct PR visa for skilled workers sponsored by an approved Australian employer.
• Requires at least 3 years of full-time skilled work experience.
• Applicants must be under 45 years of age (exemptions apply).

3.2. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

• A temporary work visa that allows skilled workers to work in Australia for up to 4 years.
• Offers a pathway to PR through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after meeting work experience requirements.

4. PR Pathways for Regional Graduates

Australia encourages skilled migrants to settle in regional areas through regional migration programs.

4.1. Designated Regional Migration Pathway

• Graduates from regional campuses are eligible for an additional year on their Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485).
• Certain regional areas offer priority visa processing for permanent residency applications.

4.2. Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191)

• For holders of the Subclass 491 or 494 regional visas.
• Requires 3 years of regional work and residence before applying for PR.

5. Points Test System for PR Eligibility

Australia's Skilled Migration Program is based on a points test, where applicants are awarded points for various criteria.

A minimum of 65 points is required to apply for most GSM visas, but higher scores improve chances of selection.

6. Other PR Pathways for Graduates

6.1. Global Talent Visa Program (Subclass 858)

• For highly skilled individuals in priority sectors like tech, science, healthcare, and finance.
• Fast-tracked PR for outstanding graduates with exceptional achievements.

6.2. Business & Investment Visas

• For graduates looking to start a business or invest in Australia.
• Options include the Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188).

6.3. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)

• For international graduates in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, PR holder, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Leads to PR after meeting relationship requirements.

7. Steps to Apply for PR in Australia

Step 1: Check Eligibility & Points Score

• Determine your eligibility based on skills assessment, occupation list, and points score.

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) on SkillSelect

• The EOI is a prerequisite for applying for GSM visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491).

Step 3: Receive Invitation & Lodge PR Application

• Once invited, submit a visa application with required documents.
• Processing times vary but generally range from 6 to 18 months.

Step 4: Complete Health & Character Checks

• Medical examination and police clearance are mandatory for PR approval.

Step 5: Receive PR Visa Grant & Apply for Citizenship

• After holding PR status for 4 years, graduates can apply for Australian Citizenship.

8. Final Tips for PR Success

• Gain Work Experience – Having Australian work experience improves PR chances.
• Improve English Skills – Higher IELTS/PTE scores add extra points.
• Study in Regional Areas – Provides additional regional study points and extended visa options.
• Consider Employer Sponsorship – Increases job security and PR eligibility.
• Stay Updated on Migration Laws – Policies change frequently, so keep track of current migration rules.

For expert guidance on visa applications, PR pathways, and eligibility, visit mycoursefinder.com.