Student Visa to PR Australia: A Guide to Permanent Residency After Studies

Student Visa to PR Australia: A Guide to Permanent Residency After Studies

For international students who are looking to establish permanent residency (PR) in Australia, this guide will serve as your roadmap. It looks into various options on how to get PR in Australia after a student visa.

Throughout, this guide emphasises the importance of strong language proficiency, relevant work experience, and thorough planning to boost your chances of approval.

Student Visa to PR in Australia: Top 3 PR Pathways

Many international students come to Australia for its world-class education. While that is the case, many of them also dream of staying permanently and are exploring ways of moving up the ladder from student visa to PR in Australia.

There are three main pathways for this and we have individually defined them here:

Post-Study Work Visa

The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) acts as a stepping stone for international students who are after a permanent residency (PR) in Australia. This two-year post-study work visa allows graduates to gain Australian work experience, which can be leveraged to achieve PR:

• Work experience in Australia can add points in meeting the criteria for skilled migration visas such as the Subclass 189 (Independent Skilled) or 190 (Skilled Nominated)
• If you are a post-study work visa holder, you are able to grow your network, build relationships, and potentially secure employer sponsorship for a permanent visa in the future
• If you work in Australia, you are exposed to an immersive English environment. This can further refine your language skills which is crucial for many PR pathways.

While the post-study work visa is not a direct route to PR, it can effectively equip you with the tools and experience so you can succeed in your PR applications in the future.

General Skilled Migration

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) programs present another strategic pathway to PR in Australia. These programs may be used by international students with highly sought-after skills and qualifications.

These are the factors counted for the points system of this visa:

• In-demand Occupation: Your occupation must be included in the list of Australia’s skilled occupation
• Work Experience: You must have relevant and substantial work experience in your chosen field
• Education Qualification: You must hold a degree or certification that is relevant to your occupation
• English Language Proficiency: You must pass standard English language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
• Age Eligibility: You must be at least 45 years old at the time of your application.

Employer-Sponsored

Employer sponsorship offers a direct and secure pathway if you are an international student who seeks PR in Australia. This method needs you to have a work in the country and that your employer must be willing to sponsor and nominate you for a permanent visa.

Here’s how it works:

• Your occupation must be included in Australia’s skilled occupation list. This will increase your chances of finding an employer.
• You must show that your skill is a valuable contribution to their team.
• You must secure a formal nomination from your employer who will vouch for your skills and commitment to their company.
• You can then apply and be qualified for a permanent visa like the subclass 186 (Employer Nominated Scheme), once you confirm your employer’s sponsorship

Tips on How to Get PR in Australia with Student Visa

Although a student visa does not guarantee permanent residency in Australia, it can be your stepping stone in achieving that dream.

We have compiled a few tips on how to convert student visa to PR in Australia:

Choose a Suitable PR Visa

Finding the most appropriate way to secure a PR from your student visa can be complex. But you don’t have to go through it by yourself. To guide you to the correct PR visa pathway after studies, consider seeking legal guidance from an experienced immigration consultant. Their insights and expertise can help you decide which pathway to go, strengthen your application, and increase your chances of success.

Work on Boosting your Qualifications

To optimise your application, you need to show your potential to contribute to Australia’s economy and society.

You can focus on the following areas:

1. Gain relevant work experience: You must prioritise accumulating work experience that is relevant to any of Australia’s skilled occupations. This enables you to showcase your practical skills and understanding of the Australian workplace.

2. Consider pursuing higher studies: Aside from having an accredited degree or certifications, you might want to consider furthering your academic credentials to boost your points score. It shows that you are invested in your professional development and highest educational attainment.

3. Meet Age and Language Proficiency Standards: Your age is one of the basic criteria in many PR pathways. It is advised that you apply for the visa before reaching the age limit. You also need to achieve high scores in recognised English language tests to demonstrate your ability to communicate competently.

Compile all Documentary Requirements

To proceed with your permanent residency application in Australia, you need to submit a complete and accurate set of documentation. Here are some general documents that you need to include in your application:

• Valid passport: You must have a valid passport not due to expire soon and extend beyond your application period.
• Identity evidence: First in the list is your birth certificate, national identity card if you have one, or other government-issued identification documents.
• Academic papers: Submit the necessary documentation about your academic credentials like certificates, transcripts, and diplomas related to your chosen field.
• Work experience documents: If you’ve been employed, submit relevant work documents such as employment contracts, payslips, and reference letters.
• English language test results: Demonstrate you have the required English level by submitting your English proficiency test result from the IELTS or PTE.
• Medical certificates: You must be mentally and physically fit and therefore be required to submit proof of good health from a qualified healthcare professional.
• Police certificates: You may likewise be requested to secure and include police certificates in your application, proving you’re not involved in any illegal activities.
• Financial documents: Present supporting evidence of your financial capacity such as bank statements and tax records in your visa application.

Hire an Immigration Expert for Advice

If you feel a little too overwhelmed in looking at the various PR pathways, consider hiring an immigration professional who can genuinely provide comprehensive visa guidance and support. An experienced and registered migration agent will help ensure an easy-sailing visa application and increase your chance of attaining your PR dream.

Get Expert Help From Parish Patience for Your PR Visa After Studies

If you are still unsure how to get PR in Australia on a student visa, seek professional assistance from our Parish Patience immigration lawyers. They will thoroughly assess your situation, recommend the right visa, and help you overcome any challenges involving your eligibility requirements. Our immigration specialists will guide you in preparing your application, coordinate with authorities, and even assist you with appeals as needed. Free yourself from any stress in your PR journey by partnering up with Parish Patience. Book a consultation with us today!