Dreaming of staying in Australia after you graduate? Here’s all you need to know about Australia Post-Study Work Visa and PR Pathways – straight from industry experts!
Be it to gain international work experience or to eventually settle as a permanent resident, Australia offers clear, structured post-study work and PR pathways for international students, including Indian students.
This comprehensive blog will help you navigate all the details.
Why Stay Back in Australia After Studies?
Before we explore the visa options, here’s why staying back in Australia makes sense:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Work Experience | Gain real-world experience in a developed economy |
| PR-Friendly Policies | Australia has clear migration pathways for skilled graduates |
| High Demand Occupations | Sectors like healthcare, engineering, and IT need fresh talent |
| Competitive Salaries | Entry-level jobs can pay AUD 60,000–80,000 annually |
| Cultural Diversity | Inclusive, multicultural society with high quality of life |
Types of Australia Post-Study Work Visas (2024–2025)
Once you finish your course, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). There are 3 main streams:
| Visa Stream | Who It’s For | Duration | Main Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Work Stream | VET or diploma graduates in skilled occupations | Up to 18 months | Skills assessment in an eligible occupation |
| Post-Study Work Stream | Bachelor/Master/PhD graduates (from CRICOS-listed institutions) | 2–4 years | Degree must be in higher education |
| Second Post-Study Work Stream | Graduates who studied in regional areas | 1–2 years extra | Prior 485 holder + study completed in regional campus |
Key Differences Between 485 Australia Graduate Visa Streams
| Feature | Graduate Work Stream | Post-Study Work Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Education Level | VET/Trade Diploma | Bachelor’s or higher |
| Occupation List Needed? | Yes | No |
| Skills Assessment Needed? | Yes | No |
| Duration | Up to 18 months | 2–4 years |
| PR Transition Friendly? | Moderate | High |
Regional Work Incentives & Extensions in Australia Post Study
Want to stay longer and increase your PR chances? Study in a regional area.
| Region Category | Examples | 485 Extension |
|---|---|---|
| Category 2 – Cities and Major Regional Centres | Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast | +1 year |
| Category 3 – Regional Centres and Other Areas | Townsville, Hobart, Ballarat | +2 years |
SkillSelect: Your Gateway to PR in Australia
To apply for skilled PR, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
| PR Visa Type | Pathway | Points Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Independent (189) | No sponsorship; based on points only | 65+ (higher score = better) |
| State Nominated (190) | Nomination from Australian state/territory | 65+ (with state requirements) |
| Regional Sponsored (491) | Regional nomination; temporary pathway to PR | 65+ and live/work in regional |
Australia PR Pathways for International Graduates
Here’s how you go from student → work → PR:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Finish Eligible Degree | Bachelor’s or above from CRICOS-registered institution |
| 2. Apply for 485 Visa | Choose correct stream & fulfill requirements |
| 3. Gain Skilled Work Experience | In occupation listed on Skilled Occupation List (SOL or MLTSSL) |
| 4. Submit EOI via SkillSelect | Indicate preferred PR visa (189/190/491) |
| 5. Get Invited to Apply | Based on points, demand, and your occupation |
| 6. Lodge PR Application | Provide documents, health check, police verification |
You Might Also Like: Scholarship Opportunities in Australia for Indian Students
Are You Eligible for an Australia PR Post Study?
Most PR visas are points-tested. Here’s how you score:
| Criteria | Typical Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32 years) | 30 |
| English Proficiency | 10–20 (based on IELTS/PTE) |
| Work Experience | 5–20 (in and outside Australia) |
| Education in Australia | 5–10 |
| Regional Study | 5 |
| Partner Skills | 5–10 |
| State Nomination | 5–15 |
Step-by-Step: From Post-Study Graduate Visa to Permanent Residency in Australia
- Complete Your Degree in Australia
- Apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (485)
- Gain Skilled Work Experience relevant to the occupation list
- Pass English Language Test (IELTS 7 or PTE 65 for max points)
- Get Skills Assessment from relevant assessing body
- Submit EOI on SkillSelect
- Wait for PR Invitation (can take weeks to months)
- Apply for PR under 189/190/491 stream
- Stay Updated on visa processing, medicals, and interviews
- Receive PR Grant
Tips to Maximize Your Australia PR Chances
- Study in regional campuses
- Target high-demand occupations (IT, nursing, engineering)
- Improve your English test score
- Gain relevant work experience on 485 visa
- Consider state nomination if your 189 invite is delayed
- Keep documents ready: resume, SOP, references, health check, et. al.
Need Personalized Help?
Australia offers a student-to-residency journey like few other countries. By understanding the 485 visa and choosing the right path, you can lay the foundation for a strong career – and a future in Australia.
Whether you’re just starting your studies or already graduating soon, having a post-study plan is key. And if you need personalized help?
Book a Free Counseling Session with our advisors at Admitix and get clarity on your PR roadmap!
Let’s turn your Aussie dream into a long-term reality.
FAQs – Australia Post-Study Work Visa & PR
Can Indian students apply for PR after studying in Australia?
Yes, if you meet the points and eligibility under skilled migration categories.
What is the validity of the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?
2–4 years depending on your qualification and study location.
Does a Diploma make me eligible for PR?
Only if it leads to an occupation on the MLTSSL and you have a valid skills assessment.
Can I work full-time on a 485 visa?
Yes, there are no work restrictions during your 485 visa period.
Is regional study really worth it?
Absolutely. It gives you extra points, longer stay, and better PR prospects.