VISA and Migration - Australia

Student Visa

(Subclass 500)

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This visa allows international students to live and study in Australia at recognized institutions.

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most common entry point for students planning to pursue higher education, vocational training, or English language courses in Australia. It provides flexibility to study full-time while gaining international exposure and limited work experience.

Key Highlights:

• Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study

• Full-time work rights during holidays

• Stay for the duration of your course

• Option to include dependents (spouse/children)

• Pathway to post-study work and PR

👉 Ideal starting point for study + migration pathway

Post-Study Work Visa

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)​

A post-study visa that allows international graduates to stay and gain work experience in Australia.

This visa is designed for students who have completed eligible qualifications in Australia. It allows graduates to gain local work experience, which can significantly improve their chances of securing permanent residency.

Streams:

• Post-Study Work Stream (for degree holders)

• Graduate Work Stream (for skills in demand occupations)

Key Highlights:

• Full-time work rights

• Stay duration: 18 months to 4+ years

• Opportunity to gain Australian work experience

• Strong pathway toward PR visas

👉 Best for transitioning from student to skilled migrant

Skilled Migration (PR Pathways)

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)​

A state-sponsored permanent residency visa.

This visa requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state has its own occupation list and criteria, making it easier for candidates with slightly lower points to qualify.

Key Highlights:

• PR with state nomination

• Additional points boost

• Faster invitation chances

• Flexibility after initial settlement period

👉 Ideal for candidates targeting specific states

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Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

A regional visa with a pathway to permanent residency.

This visa encourages migrants to live and work in regional areas of Australia. It is a temporary visa but offers a clear pathway to PR after meeting eligibility criteria.

Key Highlights:

• Valid for 5 years

• Requires state or family sponsorship

• Work and live in regional Australia

• PR pathway via Subclass 191

👉 Great option for lower points or regional demand occupations

Family & Partner Visas

Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100)

For spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or PR holders

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These visas allow partners to join their loved ones in Australia. The process usually begins with a temporary visa, followed by permanent residency after meeting relationship requirements.

Key Highlights:

• Temporary → Permanent pathway

• Full work and study rights

• Includes married and de facto partners

👉 For couples planning long-term settlement together

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Parent Visa (Subclass 103 / 143)

Allows parents to migrate to Australia if their children are settled there.

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Parent visas enable family reunification. There are both contributory (faster but higher cost) and non-contributory (slower processing) options available.

Key Highlights:

• Long-term stay or PR options

• Sponsored by eligible child

• Multiple processing timelines

👉 For families planning to reunite in Australia