Study in Australia

PR in Australia after study: the pathways, explained simply

Many students ask whether studying in Australia can lead to permanent residence (PR). Sometimes it can, but it is never automatic and never guaranteed. This page explains the usual steps in plain language so you can plan sensibly, and shows where licensed advice is needed.

Last updated 6 November 2026. Written by the IGC counselling team.

The big picture

Australia does not have a rule that says "study here and receive PR". Permanent residence is granted through migration programmes with their own conditions, and those conditions change. A degree can help in three ways: it gives you skills, it can make you eligible for a post-study work visa, and the Australian work experience and qualification may count toward a skilled visa. Whether you personally qualify depends on your occupation, English level, age, work experience, the points system and the rules in force at the time.

Step 1: Study

Choose a course you can complete and that suits your career. The choice of course and the place you study can affect later options, so ask a registered migration agent before you enrol if migration is part of your plan, and not after. Browse the bachelor courses or the Course Finder.

Step 2: Post-study work

Eligible graduates can apply for a post-study work visa (the Temporary Graduate visa, subclass 485). Eligibility, the length of stay and the conditions depend on your qualification and the rules when you apply. Work experience gained in this period can be useful for later steps.

Step 3: Skilled migration routes

Permanent skilled visas are usually assessed in these ways. Details and eligibility change, so these are descriptions, not advice:

• Points-tested skilled visas. You show your interest through the government's SkillSelect system. Points can depend on age, English, education, work experience and other factors, and you need an occupation on the relevant list and often a skills assessment.
• State or territory nomination, and regional visas. Some states and regions nominate or sponsor people with occupations they need. Living and working in a regional area can matter.
• Employer-sponsored visas. An Australian employer offers a job in an eligible occupation and sponsors you.

Invitations are limited, occupation lists change and processing times vary. No consultancy can promise an invitation or a result.

Things that commonly matter

• Your occupation and whether it is on the list for the visa you want
• English test results at the level required for that visa
• A skills assessment from the relevant authority, where required
• Age, work experience and the points you can honestly claim
• Health and character requirements
• Keeping your visa conditions, such as study load and work hours, so your record stays clean

Where to get licensed advice

Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or a legal practitioner can give immigration assistance in Australia. Ask for the registration number, check it on the official OMARA register, and get the fee terms in writing. IGC can help you choose a course and apply to a university, then refer you to a licensed professional for migration questions. See also how to choose a consultancy.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get PR in Australia after studying?

Some graduates do, but it is not automatic or guaranteed. It depends on your occupation, English, points, work experience and the rules at the time. Ask a registered migration agent (MARA) about your case.

Does a bachelor or master degree matter for PR?

The qualification, the field and where you studied can affect eligibility for a post-study work visa and for points. Rules change, so check before you enrol.

What is the subclass 485 visa?

It is the Temporary Graduate visa for eligible graduates, which allows a period of post-study work. Eligibility and conditions depend on your qualification and the rules when you apply.

Can IGC apply for my PR?

No. IGC is a study abroad consultancy and does not provide migration advice. Australian immigration assistance must come from a registered migration agent (MARA) or a legal practitioner.

Is it safe to trust a promise of guaranteed PR?

No. Nobody can guarantee PR. Be careful with anyone who does, and check the licence of any agent.

Related pages

Study in AustraliaBachelor courses in AustraliaAustralian student visaCanada PR pathwaysHow to choose a consultancyContact us