Why Consider Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia?
Australia is a top destination for international students, not just for its high-quality education but also for potential opportunities to settle permanently. The Australian PR system allows skilled individuals to apply for residency after completing their studies, offering benefits such as unrestricted work rights, access to Medicare, and a pathway to citizenship.
Eligibility for PR After Studying in Australia
International students who complete at least two years of study in Australia in an eligible course may have multiple pathways to apply for PR. These pathways typically require a valid skills assessment in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and meeting the minimum required points for PR eligibility.
Skilled Migration Visa Options
- Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa
- Allows graduates to stay and work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies.
- Two streams:
- Graduate Work Stream: For students with skills relevant to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Post-Study Work Stream: For students with an Australian bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa (PR)
- A points-based visa for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship by a state or employer.
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (PR)
- A state-nominated visa requiring nomination from an Australian state or territory.
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
- For those willing to live and work in regional Australia; offers a pathway to PR after three years.
Points System for PR in Australia
PR in Australia is based on a points system where applicants must score at least 65 points to be eligible. Points are awarded based on factors like:
- Age (Maximum points: 30)
- English Proficiency (Maximum points: 20)
- Educational Qualifications (Maximum points: 20)
- Australian Study Experience (Maximum points: 5-15, depending on duration and qualification level)
- Regional Study (Additional 5 points for studying in designated regional areas)
- Work Experience (Australian and overseas work experience considered)
- State or Territory Nomination (Additional 5 points under Subclass 190, 15 points under Subclass 491)
Benefits of Studying in Regional Australia
Students who complete their studies in designated regional areas may be eligible for additional PR points and longer post-study work rights. Some well-known regional universities include:
- Charles Darwin University (Northern Territory)
- University of Tasmania
- James Cook University (Queensland)
- Federation University (Victoria)
- University of New England (New South Wales)
Work Rights for International Students
- Student visa holders can currently work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays.
- After graduation, the Subclass 485 Visa allows full-time work in Australia for 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification and location of study.
Next Steps: How to Apply for PR?
- Check if your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Calculate your points to see if you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
- Receive an invitation to apply for a PR visa.
- Apply for the visa within the given timeframe.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official Department of Home Affairs website: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
