Australia is a popular destination for international students seeking world-class education and career opportunities. Aside from the quality of education, many international students aim to secure a Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia after completing their studies. PR status allows individuals to live, work, and study anywhere in the country with the ability to access social benefits and health services.
However, securing PR in Australia can be a competitive and challenging process. It is important to be aware of the eligibility criteria, pathways, and tips for increasing your chances of obtaining PR. In this article, we’ll explore several ways international students can work towards securing PR in Australia in 2025.
1. Understanding Australia’s PR System
Before diving into the tips, it is crucial to understand how Australia’s PR system works and what factors are considered when applying for permanent residency. Australia’s immigration policies are largely based on a points system, where applicants earn points for various factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
The two most common visa subclasses that lead to PR are:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): This is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): This visa is for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. It is also a points-based visa but offers more points to applicants who have received state or territory nominations.
2. Choose Your Course Wisely
One of the most important steps in your journey toward securing PR in Australia is choosing the right course. While you may be passionate about a particular field, it’s essential to consider how your education aligns with the skills in demand in Australia.
To increase your chances of qualifying for a skilled migration visa, select a course that corresponds with occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Occupations in high demand, such as healthcare professionals, engineers, IT specialists, and tradespeople, are often given higher priority in the immigration process.
3. Completing a Recognized Australian Qualification
One of the basic requirements for securing PR is completing a recognized Australian qualification. The Australian government requires that international students obtain an Australian qualification that is accredited by the relevant Australian professional bodies.
Ensure your educational institution is registered with the CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students) to guarantee that your course and qualifications meet the eligibility standards. It’s also important to check if your profession requires licensing or accreditation in Australia, as this could affect your ability to work and apply for PR.
4. Improve Your English Language Skills
English proficiency is one of the key factors in earning points for the points-based immigration system. The better your English language skills, the more points you will be awarded in your PR application.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most commonly accepted English test in Australia, though other tests such as TOEFL and PTE are also accepted. To maximize your points for language proficiency, aim for a score of 7 or above in each band on the IELTS exam, which will significantly improve your chances of securing PR.
5. Gain Relevant Work Experience in Australia
Work experience in Australia is another important factor in the points-based immigration system. To improve your chances of securing PR, it is crucial to gain relevant work experience during your studies or immediately after graduation.
The Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485) allows international students who have completed their qualifications in Australia to stay and work for up to 4 years (depending on theirqualificationsn). During this time, you can gain valuable local work experience, which can contribute to your PR application. Work experience in occupations that are in demand is especially beneficial, as it boosts your points.
6. Consider State or Territory Nomination
If you are unable to secure an independent skilled visa, another pathway to PR is through state or territory nomination. States and territories in Australia often have their immigration programs to address skill shortages in specific regions. By obtaining a Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), you can gain additional points and increase your chances of securing PR.
To apply for state or territory nomination, you need to check the specific requirements for each state, as they may vary. Some states may prioritize particular occupations or require applicants to work in the state for a certain period. Be sure to explore all state nomination programs available to you.
7. Build a Strong Network and Connections
Networking plays a significant role in securing a job and increasing your chances of gaining PR. Building professional connections with industry leaders, mentors, and other professionals in your field can open doors to job opportunities that align with your career goals.
Attend industry events, conferences, and career fairs to make connections with potential employers. Many international students are hired after completing internships or networking events, which can make them eligible for sponsorship by Australian employers. This can be a viable route to gaining the experience needed to apply for PR.
8. Apply for the Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186)
Another pathway to securing PR in Australia is through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (subclass 186). This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for permanent positions. To apply for this visa, you need to secure a job offer from an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor you.
While this visa requires specific qualifications and work experience, it can be an excellent way to transition from a temporary work visa to permanent residency in Australia. Often, this is a viable option for international students who can demonstrate their skills and competencies to Australian employers.
9. Use the Skills Assessment Process
For many skilled migration visas, applicants are required to undergo a skills assessment through an Australian assessing authority. This assessment is crucial for confirming that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your occupation.
Make sure to submit the appropriate documentation to the assessing authority, including your qualifications, work experience, and any additional information they request. A successful skills assessment is necessary for progressing with your PR application.
10. Stay Updated on Changes to Immigration Policies
Australia’s immigration policies are frequently updated, so it’s essential to stay informed about any changes that could impact your eligibility for PR. Immigration laws and policies may change, and there might be new opportunities or requirements for international students to obtain PR.
You can stay updated by regularly checking the official website of the Department of Home Affairs and consulting with a registered migration agent for expert advice on navigating the process.
11. Seek Professional Advice from a Migration Agent
Navigating the PR process can be complicated, so seeking professional advice from a registered migration agent is often a wise decision. A migration agent can provide personalized guidance on the best pathways to PR, ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and help you address any potential challenges.
It’s important to choose a migration agent who is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) to ensure you receive expert advice and support.
12. Be Patient and Persistent
Securing PR in Australia is a long-term process that requires dedication, patience, and persistence. The immigration system can be competitive, and it may take several years to accumulate the necessary points and qualifications to be eligible for PR. Stay focused on your goals and continue working towards gaining relevant qualifications, work experience, and skills.
13. Keep Track of Your Points and Eligibility
As part of the points-based immigration system, it is essential to track your progress in terms of points accumulation. Your total score can determine your eligibility for different visa subclasses, and maintaining an up-to-date tally of your points can help you gauge your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.
The points you can earn come from several factors, including:
- Age: Applicants aged between 25 and 32 earn the maximum points for age, while those aged 33–39 earn fewer points.
- Education: Your Australian qualifications will score points based on the level of education attained.
- English proficiency: A higher score on an English language test increases your points.
- Work experience: Relevant work experience in Australia and overseas can help increase your score, especially if it is in a skilled occupation.
- Sponsorship: If you are nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an employer, you can receive additional points.
To increase your chances of securing PR, regularly check your eligibility and take steps to improve any areas where you may be lacking points, such as improving your English proficiency or gaining more relevant work experience.
14. Understand the Regional Migration Pathway
In 2025, regional migration has become an increasingly attractive option for international students looking to secure PR. The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (subclass 187) and Regional Employer Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 494) are designed to encourage migrants to live and work in regional areas of Australia. These areas often experience skill shortages, and the government provides additional incentives and pathways to applicants willing to settle in these regions.
If you’re willing to work in regional areas, you can increase your chances of securing PR by applying for these regional migration visas. In addition to gaining work experience in a regional area, you may be eligible for priority processing of your PR application.
15. Post-Graduation Opportunities and the Graduate Visa (subclass 485)
Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows you to stay in Australia temporarily while you gain work experience or improve your qualifications. This visa is divided into two streams:
- Graduate Work Stream: For international students who have recently graduated with an eligible qualification. This stream is ideal for those looking to gain work experience in their field and meet the eligibility criteria for a skilled migration visa.
- Post-Study Work Stream: For international students who have completed a higher education qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher) and wish to work in Australia temporarily.
This visa offers an excellent opportunity to work in Australia after your studies and gain the necessary experience to qualify for a skilled migration visa. It is important to apply for the visa soon after graduation and use this time to gain experience and potentially secure a full-time job with a sponsoring employer.
16. Be Aware of the Regional Graduate Visa (subclass 491)
Another visa pathway that could lead to PR in Australia is the Regional Skilled Work Visa (subclass 491), which allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas for up to five years. While on this visa, you may be eligible to apply for PR through the Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa (subclass 191) after meeting specific work and residence requirements.
This pathway is becoming increasingly popular as it allows international students and workers to live and work in regional areas while contributing to the local economy. In 2025, Australia’s emphasis on regional migration is expected to continue, making the subclass 491 visa an attractive option for students willing to explore opportunities outside of major cities.
17. Seek Advice from Alumni and Fellow International Students
One valuable resource that is often overlooked by international students is the experience of alumni and current students who have gone through the PR process. Many educational institutions have alumni networks, student associations, or career services that can guide immigration pathways and PR opportunities.
Connect with alumni and fellow international students who have successfully secured PR in Australia. They can offer practical advice on how they navigated the immigration system, as well as tips for making the most of your study and work experience in Australia. Often, alumni may also have connections to employers willing to sponsor skilled migrants, which could open doors to job opportunities and PR pathways.
18. Be Prepared for Long-Term Planning
The process of securing PR in Australia can be time-consuming, and international students need to be prepared for long-term planning. It may take several years for your application to be processed, and you may need to be patient as you accumulate the necessary qualifications and experience. In addition to that, migration laws may change during this period, which may influence your application.
Start planning early. Take into consideration the length of your studies, the time it may take to gain work experience, and the steps you need to take to ensure you qualify for PR. This proactive approach will make the process smoother and more manageable as you work towards your goal of permanent residency.
19. Consider the Pathways for Partners and Family Members
If you are in a relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, there may be opportunities for you to apply for PR through the Partner Visa (subclasses 820 and 801). This pathway allows the partner of an Australian citizen or PR holder to apply for a temporary visa that leads to permanent residency after two years.
In addition, if you have close family members in Australia, certain family migration pathways could also lead to PR. For example, parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents may be eligible for the Parent Visa (subclass 103). While these pathways are not as common for international students, they may be relevant if your family situation changes during your stay in Australia.