Many international students aspire to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Australia is among the world’s most sought-after study abroad locations. The pathways to PR are designed to attract skilled workers, which means your education and career choices as a student can seriously influence your PR eligibility.
The process typically involves transitioning from a student visa to a post-study work visa, gaining local experience, and meeting specific requirements under Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about achieving PR in Australia, from eligibility criteria to visa application timelines.
How International Students Can Obtain Permanent Residence in Australia
- Post-Study Work Visa
You may apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) once your studies are finished. This allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on your qualification. Use this time to gain relevant work experience in an occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Skilled Migration Pathways
Most students apply for PR through the GSM program, which includes the following key visa subclasses:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): No sponsorship required; you can live and work anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): Requires state or territory nomination, often tied to a commitment to live and work in that area.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): In regional locations, it is intended for skilled workers. After three years, this visa can lead to a permanent visa.
- Skill Assessment and Expression of Interest (EOI)
A critical step involves having your skills assessed by a relevant authority for your chosen occupation. You then submit an EOI via SkillSelect, detailing your qualifications, work experience, and desired visa type. Based on your points score, you may receive an invitation to apply for a PR visa.
- Alternate Pathways
Employer Sponsorship: Secure a job in your field and let your employer sponsor your PR application under the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
Regional Sponsorship: Opt for regional universities or jobs to qualify for region-specific programs that fast-track PR.
Requirements for PR in Australia
- Eligibility Criteria
Age: Not more than 45 years old when applying.
English Proficiency: Achieve required scores in tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Occupation: Your job must be on the SOL.
Education: A degree from an Australian institution in an eligible field (e.g., nursing, engineering, IT, or social work).
Work Experience: Relevant experience in your field is essential for higher points.
- Points-Based System
The GSM program uses a points system, with factors like age, qualifications, English proficiency, and experience determining eligibility. To submit an EOI, you need to score at least 65 points.
Visa Fees and Application Timelines
- Fees
Subclass 485 Visa: AUD 1,730.
Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491): Ranges from AUD 4,240 to AUD 4,885, depending on the visa type.
- Application Timelines
Expressions of Interest (EOI) submissions open year-round.
Processing times vary but typically take 6-9 months from the date of invitation.
Opening and Closing Dates for PR Applications in 2025
While EOIs can be submitted anytime, state nominations and employer sponsorship programs often have specific opening and closing dates. For example, some regional programs operate on a fiscal year basis (July-June). It’s essential to monitor announcements from individual states and territories.
Conclusion
Achieving PR in Australia requires strategic planning. From choosing the right course to gaining relevant work experience, every step counts. By staying informed about eligibility criteria, occupation demand, and application timelines, you can simplify your journey to PR in Australia
FAQs
1. Can I get PR directly after studying in Australia?
No. After completing your studies, you must first gain a post-study work visa, followed by a skilled migration or employer-sponsored pathway.
2. What is the minimum points requirement for PR?
You need at least 65 points in the GSM system. The probability of getting invited increase with higher scores.
3. Which courses are best for PR?
Fields like nursing, IT, engineering, social work, and automotive are in high demand and lead to PR eligibility.
4. What are the visa fees for PR?
Visa fees range from AUD 1,730 for a post-study visa to AUD 4,885 for skilled migration visas.
5. Is obtaining PR easier in rural areas?
Yes. Regional areas offer more relaxed requirements and additional points for PR applications.
6. How long does the PR process take?
From EOI submission to visa grant, it typically takes 6-9 months, provided all requirements are met.
