Australia is not only known for its quality education but is also a wonderful place for a career after your study. With a variety of post-study visa options available, international students are able to live, work, and even potentially find permanent residency. But the array of options for how to behave legally while doing so can be confusing.
We’re here to clear it up, and demonstrate how a trusted education consultant in Melbourne can help to make the post-study life transition a piece of cake.
1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This is one of the most popular visas for international students who have recently graduated in Australia. The 485 visa comes in two primary variants:
a. Graduate Work Stream
For students who have qualifications related to a role listed on the Skilled Occupation List.
Duration: Up to 18 months (24 months for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders)
Requirements:
- You need to have a qualification in a skilled occupation on the list
- A skills assessment might be required
b. Post-Study Work Stream
Perfect for those who have graduated with a Bachelor, Master or PhD in Australia.
Stay Duration:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s (coursework-based): 2 years
- Master’s by research: 3 years
- Doctoral degree: 4 years
Good to Know: You don’t have to nominate an occupation
Not sure which stream is right for you? An education consultant in Melbourne will be able to match your study background to the most suitable visa stream.
2. Extra Time for Regional Graduates
If you were studying or living in a designated regional area, you were likely to get extra time on your stay.
Extra Stay: 1-2 more years
Conditions:
- Your university must be a university in a regional area
- You will need to stay living in the area while you’re studying and during your first 485 visa
If you would like more time to work or work towards permanent residence, it is a fantastic option.
3. Graduate Visa to PR (Permanent Residency)
The 485 visa isn’t just a work visa—it’s also an opportunity to work your way towards permanent residency.
Popular PR pathways include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
To be eligible for these visas, you will need:
- A positive skills assessment
- A solid points score on the point-based system
- Strong English skills
- An occupation that’s in demand
You will gain Australian work experience once you graduate, which can increase your points score.
4. Employer-Sponsored Visa Options
Some will be lucky to find work with those companies who will sponsor them. This might result in longer stays or PR.
Common options include:
- 457 visa (now replaced by the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Industry experience whilst on your 485 visa is a fantastic way of making yourself eligible for an employer-sponsored visa.
Why Seek Expert Help?
Australia’s visa rules change often. One slip-up can set back all your future plans – or, worse, get your application rejected. That’s why it pays to use a reputable education agent in Melbourne.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the same skills and knowledge when it comes to being a good education agent in Melbourne, and in truth a good education agent in Melbourne will:
- Assist you in choosing the best visa option for your course
- Get your papers in order (totally and completely)
- Suggest courses which maximise your chances of getting employed in Australia
- Transitioning your move to graduate to student visa seamlessly
Final Thoughts
Australia’s post-study visas offer incredible opportunities – but you must have a plan. Whether you hope to work temporarily, remain indefinitely, or even become a permanent resident, it all begins with understanding your visa options.
Balance Education Australia helps you from course selection to your future. When it comes to your post-study success, don’t leave it to chance – talk to an expert and certified education agent in Melbourne who knows what you’re working toward.
