While picturing Australia, you may think of kangaroos hopping around, cuddly koalas, aboriginal dreamtime stories, and eye-captivating landscapes. However, this country has so much to offer to its residents than just its wildlife and iconic sceneries. With a perfect combination of bustling cities and breathtaking natural landscapes, Australia is a great place to reside permanently.
The locals are friendly, easy-going, and always ready to lend a helping hand. There is no surprise why Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and globally recognized degrees. For some, studying in Australia is just the beginning – overseas students ultimately find themselves smitten by this incredibly beautiful country and decide to call it home. In order to achieve this, overseas students apply for permanent residency after completing their studies.
Are you currently studying in Australia and looking for ways to settle permanently there? You might have many chances to get permanent residency after studying in Australia. But the only convenient route will be from student visa to PR visa. In this blog, we will shed light on everything that is required to apply for a permanent residency visa in this wonderful country. So read ahead.
Requirements to Apply For a PR Visa From a Student Visa
Australia is a world-renowned destination for international students who seek to complete higher education. Upon completing their studies, applying for a post-study work visa becomes a gateway to obtaining permanent residence in Australia. This visa allows students to work for up to four years and gain valuable experience, which can be used to apply for a PR visa.
However, the way to getting permanent residence in Australia is not an easy one and requires a meticulous understanding of the available routes. The right pathway for each student usually depends on several factors, such as their academic qualification, proficiency in English, employment history, and other specific requirements.
Skill Selection
Australia’s point-based system for international students is developed in such a way that the potential immigrant can play a significant role in the country’s development in the long term through his talent and skills. Usually, potential immigrants are selected from skilled workers and their families through the skill selection program.
In a skill selection program, an applicant’s qualifications, work experience, and skill set are assessed. Then, the point-based score is assigned. In order to be eligible, your score must be at least 65.
Visa Eligibility
Australia presents different types of PR visas to overseas students based on their work experience, overall education, and other circumstances. Skilled Independent Visas, Post-study Work Visa, Skilled Regional Visa, etc., are some examples of visa programs in this country. All these visas are available for applicants who have acquired at least two years of degree from any university in Australia.
English Language Proficiency
In order to convert your student visa to PR visa in Australia, the applicants must possess sufficient English language proficiency. They can either take the Occupational English Test (OET) or IELTS and need to achieve the required score to verify they possess the required English proficiency skills.
Health & Character
Another factor to consider to be eligible for an Australian PR visa is that the applicant must meet all the health & character requirements. In addition to this, they need to submit a complete health form. A police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country is also required.
Proof of Funds
To shift your student visa to PR visa in Australia after completing your studies, you must prove that you have adequate funds to sustain yourself throughout your journey in Australia, specifically the first few months. In this case, applicants need to show their bank statements or other important financial documents.
Types of Visas That Will Help You Change Your Student Visa to a PR Visa
There are three common visa options available to international students seeking to convert their student visa to PR visa. In order to make the right choice, it is important to understand each option and evaluate which one is the most suitable for your personal circumstances.
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Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Post-study work visa is for overseas students who have recently completed their higher education at any of the universities in Australia. It allows students to temporarily reside, get employed, acquire further education, and modify their student visa to PR visa in this country.
This visa can be the most suitable option for individuals who, after completing their degrees, do not find themselves immediately eligible for permanent residency. This can be due to any reason. Either they don’t possess adequate points for skilled migration, or they have not been sponsored by the state government or any employer. In such a situation, several applicants apply for a post-study subclass 485 visa in order to resume their studies or get work opportunities.
Generally, this is a two-year visa that allows its holders unrestricted work rights. The subclass 485 visa can pave the way for applicants to change their student visa to PR visa in Australia. This is because it helps to meet the requirements for a permanent visa. It enables the students to complete Australian work experience. In addition to this, it can also allow students to cover the time required to achieve higher English language scores for additional points.
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General Skilled Migration Visas
General Skilled Migration comprises a list of visas, such as the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190), the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), or the Skilled Regional Nominated (Subclass 491). These visas are based on applicants’ skills and work experience and typically do not require a sponsorship from the state government or any employer. Furthermore, these visas are permanent or ultimately lead to permanent residency and are a golden chance to change your student visa to PR visa.
In order to be qualified for this visa, there are a number of eligibility parameters that must be fulfilled. Conditions to satisfy the criteria typically include skill and English language requirements as well as a points test.
Points for skilled migration visas are dependent on factors such as the applicant’s age, English ability, employment, and study history. Sometimes, individuals must obtain a state government nomination to meet the requirements or increase the points in their application.
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Employer-Sponsored Visas
Another possible option for transforming your student visa to PR visa in Australia is through the employer-sponsored pathway. Initially, you would need to obtain a temporary visa (subclass 482) and then work for your sponsoring employer for at least three years before applying for permanent residency. While it is not mandatory to go through this way, some employers prefer their sponsored employees to do so.
For those who do not meet the requirements for skilled migration, employer sponsorship can be a viable alternative. The eligibility criteria for this visa usually differ from skilled migration and may be easier to fulfill.
Before choosing a pathway for the transition of your student visa to PR visa, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. There are many factors to consider, and it’s worth keeping in mind that Australian visa regulations are subject to change. To maximize your chances of converting your student visa to PR visa, it’s highly recommended that you seek the assistance of StudyWise’s skilled and licensed migration advisors.
As a registered migration agency, we witness numerous students who have unfortunately become unsuccessful in their venture to become permanent residents in Australia. This usually happens due to unprofessional advice or wrong career choices. Therefore, before coming to any conclusion, it is important to decide:
- The specific course in which you want to pursue your career path.
- Your preferred university.
- The region where you want to complete your studies.
Best PR Courses in Australia for International Students
So, you’ve set your sights on Australia as your ultimate study and work destination.
What next?
With its bustling cities and breathtaking natural landscapes, it’s no wonder why! But now comes the all-important decision: what degree should you pursue that can help you change your student visa to PR visa? We get it. It can be overwhelming. But the right course could be your passport to an Australian Permanent Residency (PR) and all the amazing opportunities that come with it.
Let’s find your golden ticket together.
Here, we present a comprehensive table showing some of the most suitable courses that could help you cover your journey and change your student visa to PR visa in Australia. These courses are not only lucrative but are also recognized by relevant Australian professional systems. Simply put, by choosing any of the following courses, you can substantially upscale your game for qualifying for PR.
| Degree Program | University | Duration | Tuition Fee |
| Masters of Nursing Science | The University of Sydney | 2 years | AUD 22,000 to 50,000 AUD/year. |
| Masters of Information Technology | University of Melbourne, RMIT University | 2 years | AUD 30,000 to AUD 50,000/year |
| Masters of Business Administration | The Australian National University, Monash University | 2 years | 48,000 AUD to 63,000 AUD/year |
| Masters of Data Science | The University of Melbourne. The University of Queensland | 1.5 years | AUD 35,000 to AUD 45,000 per annum |
| Bachelors of Accounting | Australian National University, Monash University | 3 years | AUD 33,000 to AUD 55,000/year |
| Bachelors of Pharmacy | The University of Queensland, Griffith University | 4 years | AUD 30,000 to AUD 50,000/year |
General Tips For Preparing For The PR Interview
In order to maximize your chances of converting your student visa to PR visa in Australia, you need to follow certain tips and guidelines before appearing for your PR interview:
- Be aware of all the Australian immigration requirements and the process of PR.
- Be prepared to logically answer the questions about your educational background and skills.
- Have a precise familiarity with the Australian economy and employment market.
- Be ready to discuss your long-term plans for residing in Australia and what skills you possess that can contribute to the Australian economy.
- Have an adequate understanding of Australia’s rich culture and history.
- Do presentable dressing before showing up for your PR interview.
- Be prepared to discuss your prior visa application.
Feeling overwhelmed with all the requirements that need to change your student visa to PR visa? No need to stress out. Our team of expert counselors at StudyWise is here to guide you in the right direction. We want to see you achieve your goals and live out your dreams in your desired country.
So, let us help you take that first step toward a bright and fulfilling future. Contact us today!
FAQs:
Can you apply for 190 while on a student visa?
No. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) if you are still studying on a student visa. However, in case you have full-time work rights or you are a master’s or Ph.D. student in this country, it may be possible for you to apply for a subclass 190 visa.
Which state can make it easier to get PR in Australia in 2023?
If you have decided to permanently move to Australia, Tasmania can prove to be a suitable option for you to obtain PR and citizenship in a convenient way. It is considered the best place for foreign students who want to make Australia their ultimate home. On top of that, it has a thriving economy driven by some popular industries in the country.
Can you get PR in Australia after Completing your Masters?
Yes, you can undoubtedly apply for a PR in Australia after completing your Master’s degree. After getting done with this degree program, students get several visa options. These options typically include the Skilled Regional Visa, Skilled Independent Visa, Skilled Nominated Visa, and more.
How long does it take to get PR in Australia for international students?
For overseas students, it typically takes 2 to 4 years to get a Permanent Residency in Australia. However, the exact duration generally depends on a number of factors, such as the type of student visa the applicant has and his country of origin. In addition to that, the availability of any relevant visas can also play a crucial role in determining whether he qualifies for a PR visa in Australia or not.