Australia is a dream destination for students and professionals alike. With its high-quality education system, excellent lifestyle, and abundant career opportunities, many international students aim to settle in Australia permanently after completing their studies. Securing Permanent Residency (PR) can open doors to long-term stability and numerous benefits, making it a worthwhile goal.

Understanding Australia PR

Australia Permanent Residency (PR) is a status granted to non-citizens that allows them to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. PR holders enjoy most of the rights and privileges of Australian citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Why Aim for PR After Studying in Australia?

1. Pathway to Citizenship: With PR, you can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
2. Work Flexibility: PR holders can work in any field without restrictions.
3. Education Benefits: Enjoy subsidized education for children and access to student loans.
4. Healthcare Access: Enroll in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
5. Family Sponsorship: Sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas.

Eligibility for PR After Studying in Australia

1. Completing an Eligible Qualification

To qualify, you must have completed a degree, diploma, or trade qualification in Australia. The course must be registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

2. Meeting the Australian Study Requirement

You need to have studied in Australia for at least two academic years (92 weeks) in a CRICOS-registered program.

3. Choosing the Right PR Pathway

Australia offers several pathways for international students to secure PR, including skilled migration, employer sponsorship, and regional visas.

Pathways to PR After Studying in Australia

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a points-tested visa for skilled workers without employer sponsorship. Key requirements include:

• Achieving the minimum points score (currently 65 or more).
• Being on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This visa requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. The benefits include additional points for state nomination and access to more occupations on the list.

Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485)

After graduation, many students apply for this visa to gain work experience and improve their chances of meeting PR criteria. It has two streams:

• Graduate Work Stream: For students with skills on the Medium-Term Skills List.
• Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates with higher education degrees.

Employer-Sponsored Visa

Securing a job with an employer willing to sponsor you can lead to PR. This includes visas like the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).

Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

Living and working in regional Australia can boost your PR prospects. This visa provides additional points and a pathway to PR through Subclass 191 after fulfilling regional residency requirements.

teps to Get Australia PR After Studying

1. Check Your Eligibility

• Use the Department of Home Affairs’ points calculator to assess your eligibility.
• Ensure your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list.

2. Improve Your English Proficiency

• Achieve a high score in an English language test like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.

3. Gain Work Experience

• Work in your field under the Temporary Graduate Visa to boost your PR application.

4. Secure State or Territory Nomination

• Explore state-specific visa requirements and apply for nomination.

5. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Submit your EOI through SkillSelect, providing details of your skills, qualifications, and work experience.

6. Apply for the PR Visa

• After receiving an invitation, complete the PR application process with all necessary documents.

Tips to Strengthen Your PR Application

• Focus on High-Demand Occupations: Pursue qualifications and work experience in fields with skill shortages.
• Enhance Your Points: Improve English scores, gain additional work experience, or study in regional areas for extra points.
• Stay Updated: Monitor changes to visa regulations and occupation lists.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consult migration agents or lawyers for tailored guidance.

FAQs

What is the minimum score needed for PR in Australia?
Currently, the minimum points required are 65, but higher scores improve your chances.

Can I apply for PR while holding a Student Visa?
Yes, but you must meet the eligibility criteria for a PR visa.

Do regional areas offer better PR prospects?
Yes, living and studying in regional areas can provide additional points and streamlined pathways.

What English tests are accepted for PR applications?
Australia accepts IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and OET for PR applications.

Can work experience during my studies count towards PR?
Typically, work experience during studies is not considered, but post-study work under Subclass 485 can.

How long does it take to get PR in Australia?
Processing times vary, but most PR visas take between 6-12 months once lodged.

Conclusion

Securing Australia PR after studying in Australia is an achievable goal with proper planning and effort. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right pathway, and strengthening your application, you can make your dream of becoming a permanent resident a reality. Stay informed, work hard, and take advantage of the opportunities that Australia offers to international students.