Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia for International Students

Both education and opportunities to settle are major reasons why many choose Australia. For a lot of international students, after graduation, getting Permanent Residency opens the door to a successful future in Australia. This guide explains the most common routes, who can apply and the actions needed to get PR.

Why Consider Permanent Residency?

Permanent Residency (PR) status in Australia provides numerous long-term benefits, including:

• The right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
• Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
• The ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence.
• Pathways to apply for Australian citizenship.
• Access to certain social welfare benefits and programs.

Key PR Pathways for International Students

 Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

This visa allows international students to remain in Australia temporarily after completing their studies.

• Post-Study Work Stream: Available to students who have completed a higher education degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from an Australian institution.
• Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the level of qualification.
• Enables graduates to gain skilled work experience — a valuable step towards permanent residency.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory.

• Applicants must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• No sponsorship is required.
• Competitive points threshold based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This visa is also points-tested but requires nomination by a state or territory government.

• Candidates must commit to residing in the nominating state for a specified period.
• Slightly more accessible than the 189 visa due to the additional points granted through nomination.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

This is a five-year provisional visa for skilled individuals who are nominated by a state or family sponsor in a designated regional area.

• Applicants can apply for Permanent Residence (subclass 191) after three years, provided income and residency criteria are met.
• Studying and living in regional areas can lead to additional points and improve chances of nomination.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for PR

1. Identify Your Occupation
   • Confirm whether your profession is listed on the MLTSSL or relevant state occupation list.
2. Meet English Language Requirements
   • Take an approved English language test such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
3. Obtain a Skills Assessment
   • Your occupation must be assessed by the appropriate assessing authority (e.g., ACS, VETASSESS, Engineers Australia).
4. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
   • Create an EOI through SkillSelect and await an invitation to apply for a PR visa.
5. Receive Invitation and Apply
   • If selected, submit a complete visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.

Strategies to Increase PR Points

• Complete studies in a regional area (up to 15 additional points).
• Undertake a Professional Year Program (5 points).
• Achieve high English test scores (up to 20 points).
• Gain relevant Australian work experience. (up to 20 points)
• Obtain state or territory nomination.
• Be single or have a skilled partner (up to 10 points).
• Study in regional area (5 points)
• Meet the Australian study requirement (5 points)

Important Considerations

• PR eligibility is competitive and subject to change based on national skill demands.
• Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for updated criteria and occupation lists.
• Consider engaging a Registered Migration Agent (MARA) to navigate complex procedures and maximise your chances.