Introduction
If you are an international student studying in Australia and wish to stay in the country after completing your studies, obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) can be a great option. PR allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely, enjoying the many benefits the country has to offer. In this article, we will discuss the various pathways that can help you secure PR in Australia after your studies.
1. Skilled Migration
One of the most common ways to obtain PR in Australia is through the Skilled Migration program. This pathway is suitable for students who have completed a course or qualification that is in high demand in the Australian job market. To be eligible, you need to meet certain criteria, including having a relevant qualification, work experience, and English language proficiency.
2. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa, also known as the Subclass 485 visa, allows international students to work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. This visa provides a pathway to PR through the Graduate Work Stream or the Post-Study Work Stream. The Graduate Work Stream is for students with skills and qualifications relevant to specific occupations, while the Post-Study Work Stream is available to graduates of higher education degrees.
3. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS)
If you have secured a job offer from an Australian employer, you may be eligible for PR through the Employer Nomination Scheme or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme. These programs require the employer to nominate you for a skilled position that cannot be filled by an Australian worker. Meeting the skill and English language requirements are essential in this pathway.
4. State or Territory Nomination
Many Australian states and territories offer nomination programs to attract skilled migrants. If your occupation is in demand in a particular state or territory, you may be able to secure a nomination, which can boost your chances of obtaining PR. Each state or territory has its own specific requirements and occupations in demand, so it is crucial to research and apply accordingly.
5. Partner Visa
If you have a partner who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you can explore the option of obtaining PR through a Partner Visa. This pathway requires a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner, and you need to meet certain criteria to be eligible.
6. Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)
The Skilled Regional Visa is an option for international students who have completed their studies and lived in a designated regional area of Australia for a specific period. This visa allows you to work and live in a regional area and can be a stepping stone towards obtaining PR through the Skilled Regional pathway.
7. Professional Year Program
The Professional Year Program is a structured professional development program available in various fields, including accounting, engineering, and IT. Completing this program can provide additional points towards your PR application through the Skilled Migration pathway.
8. Points-Based System
Australia follows a points-based system to assess the eligibility of skilled migrants. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and more. The higher your points score, the better your chances of obtaining PR. It is essential to check the current points requirements and ensure you meet the criteria.
Conclusion
Securing Permanent Residency in Australia after completing your studies is an exciting prospect. By exploring the various pathways mentioned above, such as Skilled Migration, Temporary Graduate Visa, Employer Nomination Scheme, State or Territory Nomination, Partner Visa, Skilled Regional Visa, Professional Year Program, and the Points-Based System, you can increase your chances of obtaining PR. It is crucial to understand the specific requirements for each pathway and seek professional advice to ensure a smooth and successful PR application process.