
International students who wish to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia can choose from several pathways, including skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas, distinguished talent visas, and family or business visas. The process can be lengthy and time-consuming, with an average processing time of 6 to 8 months for Australia PR after completing studies. Students can increase their chances of obtaining PR by pursuing courses in high-demand sectors, such as IT, engineering, hospitality, and medical science. Additionally, factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and study history play a crucial role in accumulating points for skilled migration. Seeking professional advice from registered migration agencies is recommended to navigate the complex visa regulations and increase the chances of securing PR in Australia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Benefits of PR in Australia | Indefinite stay, access to Australian educational institutions, healthcare access, social support, sponsorship, pathway to citizenship |
| Visa options | Distinguished Talent Visa (Subclass 124 and 858), Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa, Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa, Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), Subclass 482, 186 Visas |
| Requirements | Health screenings, character checks, English language proficiency, qualifications, work experience, age, skill assessments, state nomination, employer sponsorship |
| Processing time | 6-8 months on average, Visa Application: 3-5 months typically |
| Courses | Dentistry, Hospitality, Engineering, Medical Science, IT, Teaching, Plumbing, Social Work, Accounting, Building and Construction |
| Universities | The University of Queensland, Bond University, Southern Cross University, Australian National University, The University of Melbourne, RMIT University, Monash University, Deakin University, University of Technology Sydney, University of Sydney |
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What You'll Learn

Skilled migration and work experience
International students can apply for permanent residency in Australia through various visa categories, including skilled work visas. The Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) is a permanent visa requiring a job offer in a regional area of Australia. Students can generally qualify directly for this option without needing a skills assessment or to first hold a 457 visa. The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa also requires a commitment to living and working in a designated regional area and often provides a faster track to permanent residency.
The Australian government or state/territory governments might invite competitive applicants to apply for a skilled visa. The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is designed for those with exceptionally in-demand skills who don't have state/territory or employer sponsorship. The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa adds five points to your application if you have state or territory nomination.
Skilled migration is a program of permanent visas based on your skills and work experience, which does not require an employer to sponsor you. There are several requirements to satisfy, including skill and English language requirements, as well as a points test. Points for skilled migration are based on factors such as age, English ability, employment history, and study history. Up to 20 points are available for work experience, with work experience up to 10 years old counting towards your application.
For international students, a post-study work visa can provide time to gain work experience and improve language skills. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows graduates to stay in Australia for 18 months to two years to find work. This visa can provide time to earn bonus points for a PR application.
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Studying in regional areas
International students can increase their chances of obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Australia by studying in designated regional areas. Regional migration can offer reduced points requirements and faster processing times for skilled visas.
One such visa is the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa, which requires applicants to commit to living and working in a designated regional area. This visa often provides a faster track to permanent residency. To be eligible, applicants must work in a role deemed to be experiencing a shortage. All of Australia is considered regional, except for the main cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Another option is the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS), a permanent visa requiring a job offer in a regional area of Australia. Students can generally qualify directly for this option without needing a skills assessment or to first hold a 457 visa. Many students are attracted to the RSMS option as they are willing to work outside the major capital cities.
International students can also obtain PR in Australia by studying in regional areas through employer-sponsored visas. Many candidates who cannot meet the skilled immigration requirements apply for employer-sponsored visas. For this visa, candidates must first obtain a temporary visa (subclass 482), work for an Australian employer for at least three years, and then apply for a permanent residence visa.
Additionally, students can increase their chances of obtaining PR by choosing to study in-demand courses in regional areas. For example, Australia's thriving tourism sector allows international students to enrol in hospitality studies such as baking, cooking, or hotel management. Other top PR courses in Australia include plumbing, social work, engineering, computer and IT, accounting, education and teaching, and medical science.
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Medical exams and character checks
To obtain permanent residency in Australia, applicants must complete a series of medical examinations and character checks. These assessments are crucial in ensuring that applicants meet the country's health and character standards. Here is a detailed overview of these requirements:
Medical Examinations:
The Australian PR medical examination is a comprehensive assessment that all applicants must undergo, irrespective of age or location. This examination typically includes the following components:
- Blood test for HIV/AIDS
- Urine test
- Height and weight measurements
- Eyesight test
- Ear and throat inspection
Additionally, individuals with tattoos or body piercings, including ladies with ear piercings, are required to undergo mandatory Hepatitis B checks. In certain cases, such as pregnancy or intentions to work in specific healthcare professions, Hepatitis B and C tests may also be necessary. It is important to note that the presence of AIDS or the HIV virus may impact the approval of an applicant's PR status.
The medical test process usually takes about an hour to complete, and the results are uploaded within 7 to 14 days to the applicant's Australia 'ImmiAccount'. The Australian PR medical report is valid for 12 months, and the cost in the USA is USD $350 per adult.
Tuberculosis (TB) Screening:
The medical examination also includes screening for tuberculosis (TB). Applicants who have previously had TB, are currently undergoing treatment, or have had close contact with someone with TB must disclose this information. A TB detection test is required even if the applicant is now free of the disease. Additionally, children are also required to undergo a TB detection test and receive a TB injection.
Psychological/Psychiatric Disorders:
As part of the medical examination, applicants must disclose any history of psychological or psychiatric disorders, including major depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. The associated costs of treatment for these disorders may impact the approval of PR status.
Character Checks:
In addition to medical examinations, applicants must undergo character checks to demonstrate their good character. This involves obtaining police certificates from any country where the applicant has resided for a substantial period. These certificates help assess an individual's character and ensure they meet the standards set by the Australian government.
It is important to note that the process of obtaining permanent residency in Australia can be complex and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Seeking guidance from registered migration advisors can be beneficial in ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
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English language proficiency
International students who wish to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia must meet certain English language proficiency requirements. These requirements vary depending on the specific visa subclass and the issuing authority.
One way to demonstrate English proficiency is by providing a certificate from a recognised English language test. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test is commonly accepted, with a minimum overall band score of 6.5 required. Other accepted English proficiency tests include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test, the Pearson Test of English (PTE), the Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly known as CAE), and the Cambridge C2 Proficiency (formerly known as CPE). It is important to note that the validity of these tests is usually limited to two years from the date of course commencement, and non-academic tests are typically not accepted.
For international students who have lived and worked in an English-speaking country for at least five years prior to commencing their studies in Australia, English proficiency may be assessed based on their work experience. Additionally, students can demonstrate proficiency through a record of satisfactory achievement in recognised qualifications undertaken in English, such as the Cambridge GCE Advanced Levels, International Baccalaureate diploma, or a completed foundation or preparation program with relevant English subjects.
In the case of nursing degrees, applicants may be required to provide a record of current registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and proof of employment in an appropriate health facility.
It is always advisable for international students to refer to the specific requirements of their desired visa subclass and check with the Department of Home Affairs for any additional English language requirements that may apply to their student visa application. The services of professional registered migration advisors can also be sought to ensure the best chance of securing a permanent visa.
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Employer-sponsored visas
International students can pursue permanent residency in Australia by transitioning from a student visa to a skilled worker visa. One way to do this is through employer-sponsored visas, which are available for skilled workers who have an existing job or a job offer from an Australian company.
There are two types of employer-sponsored visas: temporary and permanent. The temporary visa, known as the Employer-Sponsored Visa 482, allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia for an approved business for up to four years. After holding this visa for two or three years, depending on their occupation, workers may be eligible to transition to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186). This is a permanent visa that allows the holder to live and work in Australia indefinitely.
To obtain an employer-sponsored visa, individuals must meet certain requirements and demonstrate that they possess the necessary skills and abilities for the job. In some cases, a skills assessment authorised by an accrediting authority may be required. Additionally, the employer needs to apply to nominate the employee and meet certain rules set out by the Australian government.
It is important to note that Australian visa regulations change frequently, and it is recommended that individuals seeking permanent residency consult with professional migration advisors to ensure they receive accurate and up-to-date guidance. Additionally, there are other pathways to permanent residency in Australia, such as skilled migration visas and regional migration programs, which may offer faster processing times or reduced points requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
As a permanent resident, you can enjoy many of the same rights as citizens: indefinite stay, access to Australian educational institutions, healthcare access, social support, sponsorship, and a pathway to citizenship.
There are a number of requirements which must be satisfied such as skill and English language requirements as well as a points test. Points for skilled migration are based on factors such as your age, English ability, employment and study history.
Dentistry, hospitality, engineering, and medical science are some of the top courses for PR in Australia.
Regional migration, employer-sponsored visas, distinguished talent visas, and the Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) are some alternative pathways to permanent residency.









































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