Australia is not only known for its stunning landscapes and friendly locals but also for its world-class education system. Many international students choose to study in Australia to gain valuable knowledge and experience. However, once their studies are complete, they often wonder how they can extend their stay in this beautiful country. In this article, we will explore various options and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to stay in Australia after your study.
1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa, also known as Subclass 485, is specially designed for international students who have completed their studies in Australia. This visa allows you to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after your student visa expires. There are two streams under this visa:
a) Graduate Work Stream
If your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), you may be eligible for the Graduate Work Stream. This visa is valid for up to 18 months and provides an excellent opportunity to gain work experience related to your field of study.
b) Post-Study Work Stream
If you have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, you may be eligible for the Post-Study Work Stream. The duration of this visa depends on the level of your qualification. For example, if you completed a bachelor’s degree, you can stay for two years, while a master’s or doctoral degree allows you to stay for up to four years.
2. Employer Sponsorship
If you have found a job in Australia and your employer is willing to sponsor you, you may be eligible for an employer-sponsored visa. There are various visa options available, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) or the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186). These visas require your employer to meet specific criteria and demonstrate a genuine need for your skills.
3. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent residency visa that allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia. To be eligible, you must have a nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Additionally, you need to meet the minimum points requirement based on factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.
4. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187)
If you are willing to live and work in regional Australia, you may consider applying for the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa. This visa requires sponsorship from an employer located in a designated regional area. The RSMS visa offers a pathway to permanent residency and requires you to meet specific criteria, including having an eligible occupation and meeting English language requirements.
5. Partner Visa
If you are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible for a Partner Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Australia and eventually apply for permanent residency. To be eligible, you and your partner must meet certain criteria, including living together for a specified period and providing evidence of your genuine relationship.
6. Business and Investment Visas
If you have a keen interest in starting or investing in a business in Australia, you may explore the Business and Investment visa options. These visas require you to meet specific criteria related to business experience, investment amount, and business innovation. The Business Innovation and Investment (subclass 188) visa is a temporary visa that can lead to permanent residency through the Business Innovation and Investment (subclass 888) visa.
Conclusion
Staying in Australia after your study is an exciting prospect that opens up a world of opportunities. Whether you choose to explore the temporary work options or pursue permanent residency, there are various pathways available. It is crucial to carefully consider your options, assess your eligibility, and seek professional advice to ensure a smooth and successful transition from a student to a resident of Australia. Remember, each visa option has its own specific requirements and application process, so it’s essential to research and plan accordingly.
