Work & Settle Abroad | Permanent Resident | Best of | GenZ Focus | Career Advice

Introduction

If you're an international student dreaming of staying in Australia after finishing your studies, it's essential to understand how you can move from a post-study work visa to becoming a permanent resident. This visa gives grads the chance to build up some solid work experience down under, which can open the door to a more permanent type of residence. In this blog, we'll walk you through what you need to know about the requirements, the steps involved, and the benefits of making that switch from a post-study work visa to Australian permanent residency.

Types of PR in Australia: After Study Options

Completing your studies opens the door to several types of visas for Australia, giving you opportunities to stay and apply for PR. Each visa has different requirements but shares the goal of allowing you to live and work in Australia permanently.

1. Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

Looking to settle in Australia without needing a sponsor? If you've got the skills and a solid points score (65 or higher), this visa might be just what you need. Since your job is on the national skilled list, you can apply directly, and you'll be able to live anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.

2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

Is there a particular state or territory where your skills are in demand? The 190 visa could open that door for you. If a state or territory nominates you, you gain extra points and a clear pathway to permanent residency. Just keep in mind, you'll need to commit to living and working in that region for a couple of years.

3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

Thinking about exploring regional Australia? The 491 visa allows you to live, work, and study in regional areas for up to five years. After three years, you might even qualify for permanent residency. It's a good choice if your occupation is listed on the regional list and you want extra points to boost your application.

4. Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa

If you've secured a full-time job and your employer is willing to support you, this is a great option. The 186 visa provides a direct route to permanent residency through employer sponsorship. Usually, you'll need around 2–3 years of work experience, and your job must be on an eligible list.

5. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 or 309/100)

Are you in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident? If so, you can apply for a partner visa. You'll initially get a temporary visa, and after two years of being together, you could become eligible for permanent residency. It's a pathway based on love, but keep in mind, you'll need to provide proper documentation and proof of your relationship.

6. Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)

Are you a top-tier professional in fields like tech, healthcare, research, or a state-of-the-art industry? This global talent PR visa is designed for high achievers who are recognized internationally. You'll need a nomination from an Australian organization or individual, and if you're accepted, you can get PR pretty fast—no points test required.

7. Business or Investor Visas (Subclass 188/888)

If you're an entrepreneur or investor with capital to spare, this could be your pathway. The business visa lets you start or invest in an Australian business, and if you meet specific criteria, you can switch from a temporary to a permanent visa. It's especially ideal for students with a strong business background or big ideas.

[Find out More: Get PR in Australia — Fast! Your Shortcut to Permanent Residency]

Post-Study Work Visa to PR in Australia – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Graduate with an Eligible Course

Complete a CRICOS-registered course that runs for at least two academic years. Your study must be relevant to an occupation listed on Australia's Skilled Occupation List (SOL), as this is crucial for future PR eligibility.

2. Apply for Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)

After graduating on an Australian student visa, apply for the 485 visa, which lets you live and work in Australia for 2–4 years. This gives you time to build local work experience, which strengthens your chances of qualifying for permanent residency.

3. Gain Skilled Work Experience

Use your 485 visa period to work in your nominated occupation. Local Australian experience not only boosts your resume but also adds extra points to your PR application, especially for employer or state-nominated visa options.

4. Get a Positive Skills Assessment

Apply to the relevant skills assessing body (like ACS or VETASSESS) for your occupation. A positive outcome confirms your qualifications and experience match Australian standards—this is a mandatory step for skilled PR visas.

5. Improve Your Points Score

You need at least 65 points for most skilled PR visas. Improve your score by gaining experience, improving your English test results, obtaining a state nomination, or including your partner's skills if eligible.

6. Choose a PR Pathway

Select a visa that matches your profile: Subclass 189 (independent), 190 (state-nominated), or 491 (regional provisional). Each has different requirements, but all can lead to permanent residency depending on your experience and location.

7. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create a profile on SkillSelect and lodge your EOI, showing your skills, qualifications, and points. This is how you express interest in PR, and it's the first step to receiving an official invitation.

8. Apply for PR Visa

If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), submit your PR application online. Include all required documents—skills assessment, work evidence, English results, health and police checks—and pay the necessary visa fees.

[Discover More: Settle Abroad in 2025: Top Countries Offering Easy PR Routes]

9. Receive Your PR Grant

After processing and approval, you'll receive your PR visa. This grants you the right to live, work, and stay in Australia permanently, opening doors to benefits like Medicare, full-time work, and citizenship eligibility.

Essential Criteria for Getting a PR in Australia after studying

1. Complete an Eligible Course: Study a CRICOS-registered course for at least two academic years, related to a skilled occupation.

2. Apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (485): Get a 2–4 year work visa after graduation to gain experience and prepare for PR.

3. Gain Relevant Work Experience: Work in your nominated occupation to boost points and meet PR requirements.

4. Get a Skills Assessment: Receive a positive assessment from the relevant authority (e.g., ACS, VETASSESS).

5. Score Minimum 65 Points: Points are based on age, English, education, experience, and more. Higher scores improve chances.

6. English Language Proficiency: Meet minimum English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.0), but higher scores earn more points.

7. State or Regional Nomination: Apply for Subclass 190 or 491 if eligible for nomination from a state or regional area.

8. Health & Character Checks: Pass medical exams and provide police clearances to meet basic PR requirements.

9. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI on SkillSelect and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

Application Process for PR in Australia

Here's the application process for PR in Australia after study in simple and easy-to-follow steps:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Make sure your course, occupation, English score, and age meet the PR requirements. You need at least 65 points to apply under most skilled visas.

Step 2: Choose the Right PR Visa

Select the visa that suits you:

189 – Independent (no sponsor)

190 – State nominated

491 – Regional provisional (leads to PR)

Step 3: Get Your Documents Ready

Prepare your:

• Passport
• Academic transcripts
• English test results (IELTS, PTE)
• Work experience letters
• Skills assessment
• Police and medical reports

Step 4: Apply for Skills Assessment

Apply to the relevant authority (like ACS, VETASSESS, or Engineers Australia) for a skills assessment to prove your qualification matches Australian standards.

Step 5: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create a profile on SkillSelect and submit your EOI with your details, points score, and chosen occupation.

Step 6: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your profile is strong, you'll receive an Invitation to apply for PR from the Australian government.

Step 7: Submit PR Application

Once invited, lodge your PR visa application online. Upload all documents, pay the visa fee, and submit.

Step 8: Complete Health and Police Checks

Attend a medical exam and get police clearance certificates to meet the health and character requirements.

Step 9: Receive PR Grant

If everything goes well, you'll receive your PR visa grant and officially become a permanent resident of Australia.

[Learn More: Relocate Like a Pro: UK to Australia PR Journey Explained]

Conclusion

Moving from a Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) to becoming a permanent resident in Australia is a straightforward and achievable goal for international students. If you complete the right course, gain relevant work experience, get a positive skills assessment, and meet the points test, you're well on your way to settling long-term. Whether you're aiming for a skilled independent visa, a state-nominated route, or a regional visa, careful planning and acting at the right moment make all the difference. When you follow the proper steps, your Australian education can lay the groundwork for a stable and permanent future down under.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Post-Study Work Visa in Australia?

The Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) allows international graduates to live and work in Australia temporarily. It's granted for 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification level. This visa helps you gain valuable Australian work experience after finishing your studies.

2. Can I apply for PR while on a 485 visa?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while holding a 485 visa. The visa gives you time to gain work experience and improve your points. Many graduates use it as a stepping stone to skilled migration visas like 189, 190, or 491.

3. How many years of work experience do I need for PR?

There is no fixed requirement, but having at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Australia helps. Local work experience increases your PR points and eligibility. It's especially valuable for employer-sponsored or state-nominated visa pathways.

4. Do I need a skills assessment for PR?

Yes, a positive skills assessment is mandatory for most skilled PR visas. The relevant authority verifies that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards. Without it, your PR application cannot proceed.

5. How many points do I need for PR in Australia?

You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible for most skilled PR visas. Points are awarded based on age, English proficiency, education, work experience, and other factors. Higher points improve your chances of getting an invitation.

6. Which PR visa is best after 485?

The best visa depends on your situation and eligibility. The standard options are Subclass 189 (independent), 190 (state-nominated), and 491 (regional provisional). Each visa has different requirements and benefits.

7. Can I include my partner in the PR application?

Yes, you can include your spouse or de facto partner in your PR application. If your partner has good English and qualifications, you may earn extra points. They will also get permanent residency along with you.

8. What English test scores do I need for PR?

You must at least meet Competent English, usually IELTS 6 in each band. Higher scores, like IELTS 7 or 8, earn you additional points. Better English results make your application stronger and increase your chances.

9. Can I apply for state nomination on a 485 visa?

Yes, many states allow 485 visa holders to apply for nomination. Studying or working in a state improves your chances of receiving a nomination. State nomination adds 5 points to your PR application.

10. How long does it take to get PR after 485?

Processing times vary but usually take between 6 and 12 months after applying. It's essential to use it before your 485 visa expires. Delays can happen, so plan and apply early for a smooth transition.