Australia is one of the most desirable destinations for overseas students. Every year almost half a million international students move to Australia to pursue their higher studies because of its world-class education, better career opportunities and fantastic lifestyle. Lots of Indian students also dream of building a life in Australia after they finish studying. Obtaining a Permanent Residency (PR) is the most popular way for international graduates to settle there for good. This has led to a question, “can I get PR in Australia after study?” In 2025, with new visa updates and increasing opportunities in high-demand sectors, securing PR has become more achievable. So, let’s look at different pathways and eligibility for getting you an Australian PR.
Eligibility & Criteria to Get a PR in Australia
Australia’s PR system follows a structured and transparent points-based approach. In order to be eligible, students must fulfill specific eligibility requirements that assess skills, education, and professional readiness.
Basic Requirements for PR
- Age: You must be under 45 years old when you get the invitation to apply. The highest points are for those aged 25 to 32.
- Qualifications: You must have finished an eligible course in Australia. This course should be at least two years long and registered under CRICOS.
- Skills: Your qualification and experience must match an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- English Proficiency: It is a must to secure a score of IELTS 6.0-7.0 band or equivalent TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge scores. Higher scores give you more points.
- Health and Character: You must pass health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
In 2025, the points-based system continues to evaluate candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, English skills, and state nomination. A minimum of 65 points is generally required to be eligible for invitation. Points come from:
- Age, English skills, and your level of education.
- For Indian students, gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs during studies can strengthen PR prospects. Local work experience gained after study carries more weight than overseas experience.
- State/Territory nomination or regional study grant you bonus points.
- Having a skilled or English-proficient partner also adds points.
To understand the visa options, improve eligibility, and prepare documentation correctly, get expert guidance from professionals like La Forêt Education. It can ensure a smooth journey towards Australian PR success.
Options to PR after Studying in Australia
International graduates have several PR pathways to choose from depending on their education, skills, and experience. The most popular options include:
1. Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
The Post Study Work Visa is a two-year visa allowing students to work without restrictions. Candidates who have completed a two years full-time study program, usually a bachelor’s or a master’s, are eligible to apply for this visa. However, after completing their studies, many students realise they are not eligible for permanent residence. Either they don’t have an employer as a sponsor or they don’t have enough points for skilled migration. So, the Post Study Work Visa (subclass 485) is a suitable visa following studies and is used to meet the Australian PR requirements.
2. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This is a direct PR visa. This is a popular choice among international students as it does not need sponsorship from an employer or a state. This visa is for individuals with in-demand skills listed on the Skilled Occupation List. Applicants are invited through a points-based system, where selection is based on age, English proficiency, skills, and other educational qualifications. Once approved, they can live and work anywhere in Australia as a permanent resident.
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas for up to 5 years. This pathway is a priority for the government. It gives you 15 extra points and provides a clear route to the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191). For PR via Subclass 191, holders typically need 3 years residence plus other criteria.
4. State/Territory Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
This is also a direct PR visa. You need a nomination from an Australian State or Territory Government. Nomination gives you an extra 5 points. States select candidates based on their specific skills shortages. Students with specific qualifications or skills required in a particular state can apply for this visa.
5. Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186)
If an employer wishes to sponsor a graduate full-time, it can lead to PR. This route suits students who gain relevant work experience and strong employer relationships after graduation.
Employer-sponsored visa is another popular way to apply for a long-term Australia visa. Many candidates who cannot meet the requirements of a Skilled Independent Visa apply for an employer-sponsored visa. This option can fast-track your application but requires specific skills and employer commitment. For this visa, a candidate must first obtain a temporary visa (subclass 482), work in Australia for at least 3 years for a sponsoring employer, and then apply for a permanent visa.
Updated PR Trends for 2025
Indian students should strategically choose courses leading to occupations on the SOL. Australia’s 2025 immigration updates highlight skill shortages in healthcare, aged care, IT, construction, and renewable energy sectors. Indian students pursuing courses in these fields stand better chances of PR selection.
By choosing the right course, working in a regional area, and staying informed about updated visa policies, Indian graduates can build a strong foundation for PR and a long-term career in Australia.
Application Process for PR in Australia for Indian Students
Applying for PR in Australia involves multiple stages. Understanding each step ensures a smoother and more confident application journey.
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Assess Your Eligibility:
- Check that you meet the age, English, and qualification requirements. Use the Australian PR points calculator to estimate your score.
- Ensure your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
2. Skill Assessment:
- Get your skills, qualifications and work experience assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority for your field (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineers, VETASSESS for trades, etc.).
3. Take an English Test:
- It is mandatory to prove your English proficiency through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL test. Higher scores can boost points and competitiveness.
4. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI):
- Apply through SkillSelect, Australia’s online platform, to express your interest in a PR visa. An EOI is a means through which the individual can demonstrate, to the federal government, their intention to apply for a visa and to migrate to Australia.
- Provide your details, qualifications, and supporting evidence.
6. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
- If your score is high enough and your occupation is in demand, the government (or state) sends you an ITA. This is the green light to proceed with the final application.
7. Lodge the PR Application:
- Submit your full application within the specified timeframe, usually 60 days. pay the application fee and include all supporting documents (educational transcripts, skill assessment reports, English test results, work experience letters, and health & character certificates).
8. Processing and Approval:
- Once your application is submitted, wait for a decision. Interviewing and processing times may vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Usually it can take 6–12 months. Monitor the status of your application through the online portal.
If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant. Congratulations, you’re now a Permanent Resident of Australia, with full rights to live, study, and work!
Challenges and Tips:
- Rules and occupation lists may change annually. So, stay updated all the time.
- Competition is high in popular fields, so regional study or higher English scores can improve chances.
- Always cross-check details before submission to avoid delays or rejections.
- Consider consulting verified migration agents for guidance. While they cost money, they can significantly reduce errors and delays.
Careful planning, accurate documentation, and timely applications are key to success. Indian students who start preparing early during their studies stand the best chance to turn their Australian dream into reality.
Benefits of PR in Australia for International Students
Becoming a Permanent Resident (PR) in Australia offers more than just legal residency. It’s a gateway to stability, freedom, and opportunity.
- Better Job Security: You gain the freedom to work for any employer in almost any occupation. You are no longer restricted by visa conditions.
- Career Opportunities: As a PR holder you enjoy equal work rights as citizens which allows you to apply for government jobs, full-time jobs and long-term career prospects.
- Higher Living Standards: You can enjoy Australia’s high quality of life, including a safe and a clean environment.
- Access to Medicare: You receive full access to Australia’s public healthcare system ensuring affordable medical treatment.
- Education: Your children can attend public schools at local student rates. You may also qualify for cheaper university fees.
- Sponsorship: You gain the ability to sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas.
- Freedom to Travel: You can leave and re-enter Australia multiple times within the first five years.
- Multicultural Environment: You will thrive in Australia’s diverse, welcoming, and safe society.
- Pathway to Citizenship: You even become eligible for Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency/legal requirements.
For Indian graduates, PR is a life-changing opportunity to grow, settle, and contribute meaningfully to a vibrant global community.
Australia continues to be a top destination for Indian students aiming for quality education and long-term settlement. In 2025, PR pathways have become more flexible and opportunity-driven. Planning your course, boosting your English scores, and gaining local work experience early ensures better chances of receiving an invitation. Remember to explore official sources and consult expert guidance to navigate the process smoothly. Begin your journey with confidence and let Australia become your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Get PR After Study in Australia?
Ans: Yes, international students can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after completing their studies in Australia. To qualify, students must meet the eligibility criteria including skilled occupation requirements, English proficiency, and relevant work experience. Choosing in-demand courses and gaining local experience greatly improve your chances of securing PR.
2. Can I Convert My Student Visa to PR in Australia?
Ans: You cannot directly convert a student visa into PR, but you can transition through post-study work or skilled migration pathways. After completing your studies, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), gain work experience, and then qualify for a Skilled or State-Nominated PR visa.
3. Does Australia Allow Dual Citizenship?
Ans: Yes, Australia allows dual citizenship. Once you become an Australian citizen, you can still retain your Indian citizenship only if India recognises dual nationality (currently, it doesn’t). However, Indians can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, which offers similar rights like long-term residency and visa-free travel to India.
