Executive Summary
Australia PR Visa 2026 – This comprehensive guide explains how international students can achieve Australian Permanent Residency (PR) after graduation through the 485 temporary graduate visa pathway. The Subclass 485 offers two streams: Graduate Work Stream (18 months for skill-listed occupations) and Post-Study Work Stream (2-4 years based on qualification level). Key English requirements include IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.0 minimum per band, PTE 50 overall with 36 minimum, or TOEFL iBT 64+. High-demand PR courses include Diploma of Nursing Australia, certificate iii in engineering fabrication trade, early childhood education course Australia, certificate iii in bricklaying, diploma of civil construction design, cabinet making courses, teaching courses in Australia, accounting courses, and diploma of leadership & management. Students can strengthen PR applications through Australian work experience, improved English scores, regional area work, and skill assessments leading to Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa pathways.
PR in Australia After Graduation: Study These Courses & Secure Your Future
For the majority of international students, graduation in Australia is only the first step towards an even larger dream – reaching Permanent Residency (PR). One of the most popular routes towards PR is the temporary graduate visa (Subclass 485). This visa permits graduates to remain in the country, accumulate work experience, and build a strong profile for subsequent PR applications. In this article, we will analyze how graduate visa Australia functions, the requirements, and how it can lead you to PR.
The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Breakdown
The 485 temporary graduate visa is for international students who have just graduated from at least two years of study in Australia. It allows you to stay, study, and work in the country for a specified period depending on your qualification level.
What is Graduate Visa Australia? (Subclass 485)
Two significant streams under the 485 temporary graduate visa are:
Graduate Work Stream – For students who studied courses that are applicable to the occupations listed on the skilled occupation list.
Post-Study Work Stream – For recent higher education qualifiers such as bachelor’s, master’s, or PhDs.
Both streams provide quality time to gain local work experience, which is fundamental when planning PR.
Subclass 485 Visa Streams Comparison
| Feature | Graduate Work Stream | Post-Study Work Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Occupation on skilled occupation list | Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification |
| Duration | Up to 18 months | 2-4 years (depends on qualification) |
| Qualification Requirement | Trade certificates, diplomas | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Study Requirement | 2+ years Australian study | 2+ years Australian study in higher education |
| Age Limit | Under 50 years | Under 50 years |
| Skill Assessment | Required before application | Not required at application |
| Best For | Trade and vocational students | University graduates |
Duration of Temporary Graduate Visa 485
| Qualification Level | Visa Duration | Stream Type |
|---|---|---|
| Trade Certificates/Diplomas | 18 months | Graduate Work Stream |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 years | Post-Study Work Stream |
| Master’s Degree (Coursework) | 2 years | Post-Study Work Stream |
| Master’s Degree (Research) | 3 years | Post-Study Work Stream |
| Doctoral Degree (PhD) | 4 years | Post-Study Work Stream |
It is a period during which international students can gain full-time work, develop their capacity, and strengthen PR opportunities.
485 Visa English Requirements
Meeting the 485 English requirement is mandatory. You need to prove your English proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
English Proficiency Requirements Table
| Test Type | Minimum Overall Score | Minimum Component Score | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 overall | 5.0 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) | 2 years |
| PTE Academic | 50 overall | 36 in each component | 2 years |
| TOEFL iBT | 64 overall | No specific component minimum | 2 years |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 169 overall | 154 in each component | 2 years |
| OET (Occupational English Test) | Grade B overall | Grade B in each skill | 2 years |
Typical requirements are:
- IELTS overall band at least 6.0 with no minimum 5.0 band
- PTE Academic combined score of 50 with a minimum of 36
- TOEFL iBT score of 64 or more
Failing to meet these requirements can result in visa denial.
Advantages of Temporary Graduate Visa
Key Benefits Table
| Benefit | Description | PR Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Work Experience | Full-time work to gain relevant Australian experience | Earn 5-20 PR points |
| Skill Recognition | Strengthens your skilled migration visa profile | Required for skill assessment |
| Pathway to PR | Familiarize yourself with permanent visa subclasses 189, 190, 491 | Direct pathway planning |
| Flexibility | Permits further studies or exploring other areas for PR prospects | Course upgrades possible |
| No Work Restrictions | Unlimited work hours in any occupation | Build diverse experience |
| Study Rights | Can pursue additional courses while on visa | Upgrade qualifications |
| Family Inclusion | Bring dependents (spouse/children) | Family can also work/study |
| Regional Opportunities | Work in regional areas for bonus PR points | +5-15 additional points |
Work Experience – Full-time work to gain relevant Australian experience.
Skill Recognition – Strengthens your skilled migration visa profile.
Pathway to PR – Familiarize yourself with permanent visa subclasses such as 189, 190, or 491.
Flexibility – Permits further studies or exploring other areas in search of PR prospects.
Top PR Courses for International Students
1. Nursing Courses in Australia
The skills needed to start a rewarding healthcare career are equipped to you by a Diploma of Nursing Australia. Your journey as an enrolled nurse can be begun with a nursing course Australia, and later you can progress to advanced qualifications.
Eligibility for PR-related occupations on the skilled occupation list is made available to those completing a diploma of nursing course or a diploma of nursing. Those aiming higher can follow pathways leading to a bachelor in science of nursing, a bachelor of nursing, or a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Postgraduate options, including a masters of nursing or a masters in mental health nursing, are highly demanded across Australia. Students can also choose 2 year nursing programs or a bachelor of nursing course for direct entry into higher-level professional roles.
Nursing Qualifications Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Nursing Australia | 18-24 months | Enrolled Nurse | Yes – on skilled list |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 3 years | Registered Nurse | Yes – high demand |
| Bachelor in Science of Nursing | 3 years | Registered Nurse | Yes – high demand |
| Masters of Nursing | 2 years | Advanced Nurse Practitioner | Yes – high demand |
| Masters in Mental Health Nursing | 2 years | Mental Health Nurse | Yes – specialized demand |
2. Early Childhood Education Courses
One of the most popular programs for international students aiming to secure work and PR opportunities is considered a diploma of early childhood education and care. Roles in childcare centers, kindergartens, and preschools can be applied for by graduates completing an early childhood education course Australia.
Courses such as early childhood education, childcare course, and diploma childcare prepare students for rewarding jobs in the sector. Becoming an early childhood teacher is an excellent career pathway, and qualifications like certificate iii childcare can also be a stepping stone towards PR-eligible roles.
Early Childhood Education Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III Childcare | 12 months | Childcare Educator | Limited |
| Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care | 18-24 months | Early Childhood Educator | Yes – on skilled list |
| Bachelor of Early Childhood Education | 4 years | Early Childhood Teacher | Yes – high demand |
3. Engineering & Welding Courses
A certificate iii in engineering fabrication trade allows students to develop specialized skills in welding and fabrication. Completing this program opens opportunities for welding jobs Australia, which are directly linked with migration pathways.
Students can also opt for advanced qualifications such as a diploma of civil engineering or an advanced diploma in civil engineering. Careers in civil engineering are kept on the skilled occupation list, making them ideal for students planning long-term settlement. With industries needing skilled welders, becoming a welder Australia through a structured welding course can also help secure both employment and PR.
Engineering & Welding Qualifications
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Engineering Fabrication Trade | 18-24 months | Engineering Tradesperson/Welder | Yes – on skilled list |
| Diploma of Civil Engineering | 2 years | Civil Engineering Technician | Yes – on skilled list |
| Advanced Diploma in Civil Engineering | 2.5 years | Senior Engineering Technician | Yes – high demand |
| Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) | 4 years | Professional Engineer | Yes – high demand |
4. Bricklaying & Construction Courses
A certificate iii in bricklaying prepares you for skilled work opportunities and meets the eligibility criteria for migration-related job roles. Similarly, a certificate iii in wall and floor tiling or a diploma of building & construction can expand career opportunities.
Students who pursue a bricklaying course gain practical hands-on skills that directly contribute to PR applications. With construction trades listed under skilled occupations, these courses are some of the most reliable options for students looking to secure permanent residency.
Construction Trades Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Bricklaying | 18-24 months | Bricklayer | Yes – high demand |
| Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling | 18 months | Wall and Floor Tiler | Yes – on skilled list |
| Diploma of Building & Construction | 2 years | Construction Supervisor | Yes – on skilled list |
5. Civil Construction & Management Courses
A diploma of civil construction design is a sought-after qualification for students aiming to build careers in infrastructure and large-scale projects. Graduates often find strong prospects in civil engineering jobs in Australia with demand continuing to grow.
Specializations include civil construction course, construction management bachelor degree, and construction management courses that prepare students for leadership roles.
Postgraduate pathways like construction management master’s degree, masters in construction management, and specialized certifications such as construction project management, construction certificate, construction estimating, construction law courses, and online construction management courses are available for advanced study. A diploma of building and construction also remains a popular choice for migration-focused students.
Construction Management Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Civil Construction Design | 2 years | Civil Construction Designer | Yes – on skilled list |
| Diploma of Building and Construction | 2 years | Construction Manager | Yes – on skilled list |
| Construction Management Bachelor Degree | 3-4 years | Construction Project Manager | Yes – high demand |
| Masters in Construction Management | 2 years | Senior Construction Manager | Yes – high demand |
6. Cabinet Making Courses
A career in cabinet making can start with a certificate iii in cabinet making, which teaches hands-on techniques for furniture and joinery. Graduates often secure roles in furniture workshops or custom design firms, and cabinet maker jobs are listed in various skilled migration categories.
Some students also prefer to specialize in training such as certificate iii in cabinet making Melbourne, which provides additional regional benefits for PR pathways.
Cabinet Making Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Cabinet Making | 18-24 months | Cabinet Maker/Joiner | Yes – on skilled list |
| Certificate III in Cabinet Making Melbourne | 18-24 months | Cabinet Maker (regional benefits) | Yes – bonus PR points |
7. Teaching Courses
A certificate iv in training and assessment is a foundational program that helps students qualify for teaching and training roles. Studying teaching courses in Australia opens opportunities in both schools and vocational education.
Advanced programs include teaching courses Melbourne, masters of teaching Melbourne, master of teaching in Australia, and master of education Melbourne. International students often pursue these qualifications to meet teaching qualification Australia standards and fulfill the requirements for teaching in Australia to apply for PR-related teaching positions.
Teaching Qualifications Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate IV in Training and Assessment | 12 months | Vocational Trainer | Limited PR pathway |
| Bachelor of Education | 4 years | Primary/Secondary Teacher | Yes – high demand |
| Master of Teaching in Australia | 2 years | Primary/Secondary Teacher | Yes – high demand |
| Masters of Teaching Melbourne | 2 years | Specialized Teacher | Yes – high demand |
| Master of Education Melbourne | 1-2 years | Educational Leadership | Yes – professional pathway |
8. Accounting Courses
An accounting course in Australia equips students with practical knowledge of taxation, auditing, and financial systems. Many graduates advance their skills through accounting courses or specialized options like a financial accounting course.
Postgraduate studies such as master of science in accounting or masters in accounting are also popular. Flexible options like online accounting courses or undergraduate pathways such as accounting bachelor degree, bachelors in accounting, and business accounting classes provide multiple PR-focused opportunities. A diploma in accounting can also be an entry-level route into the industry.
Accounting Qualifications Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma in Accounting | 18 months | Assistant Accountant | Limited |
| Accounting Bachelor Degree | 3 years | Accountant (General) | Yes – after CPA/CA |
| Bachelors in Accounting | 3 years | Accountant (General) | Yes – after CPA/CA |
| Masters in Accounting | 2 years | Management Accountant | Yes – high demand |
| Master of Science in Accounting | 2 years | Professional Accountant | Yes – high demand |
9. Leadership & Management Courses
A diploma of leadership & management is considered a strong choice. Decision-making, communication, and team-building skills—critical for employers in Australia—are enhanced by this qualification.
Other options can be chosen by students, including a leadership and management course, business management and leadership courses, or a leadership management course tailored for international students. Advanced studies such as certification in leadership and management or a leadership and management master’s degree also align with skilled migration pathways, making them an excellent choice for those planning PR.
Leadership & Management Pathway
| Qualification | Duration | Career Outcome | PR Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Leadership & Management | 18 months | Team Leader/Supervisor | Indirect pathway |
| Leadership and Management Course | 12-18 months | Operations Manager | Indirect pathway |
| Bachelor of Business Management | 3 years | Business Manager | Yes – with experience |
| Leadership and Management Master’s Degree | 2 years | Senior Manager/Executive | Yes – high demand |
All PR-Aligned Courses Summary Table
| Course Category | Top Qualifications | Duration Range | PR Demand Level | Graduate Work/Post-Study |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing | Diploma of Nursing Australia, Bachelor of Nursing | 18 months – 3 years | Very High | Both streams available |
| Early Childhood Education | Diploma of Early Childhood Education, Bachelor of Education | 18 months – 4 years | High | Both streams available |
| Engineering & Welding | Certificate III in Engineering Fabrication Trade, Diploma Civil Engineering | 18 months – 2.5 years | Very High | Graduate Work Stream |
| Bricklaying & Tiling | Certificate III in Bricklaying, Certificate III Wall and Floor Tiling | 18-24 months | Very High | Graduate Work Stream |
| Construction Management | Diploma of Civil Construction Design, Construction Management Bachelor | 2-4 years | High | Both streams available |
| Cabinet Making | Certificate III in Cabinet Making | 18-24 months | High | Graduate Work Stream |
| Teaching | Master of Teaching in Australia, Masters of Teaching Melbourne | 2-4 years | High | Post-Study Work Stream |
| Accounting | Accounting Bachelor Degree, Masters in Accounting | 3-4 years | Medium-High | Post-Study Work Stream |
| Leadership & Management | Diploma of Leadership & Management, Master’s Degree | 18 months – 2 years | Medium | Both streams available |
How the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa Paves the Way for PR
From 485 to PR: Complete Pathway
| Stage | Action Required | Timeline | PR Points Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1: Complete Course | Graduate from 2+ year Australian qualification | 2-4 years | +5 to +20 points (Australian study) |
| Stage 2: Apply for 485 Visa | Lodge 485 temporary graduate visa within 6 months | Within 6 months of graduation | Enables work experience accumulation |
| Stage 3: Gain Work Experience | Work in nominated occupation full-time | 1-3 years on 485 visa | +5 to +20 points (Australian experience) |
| Stage 4: Improve English | Achieve PTE 79+ or IELTS 8 each band | During 485 period | +10 to +20 points |
| Stage 5: Skill Assessment | Complete positive skill assessment for occupation | 2-3 months | Mandatory for PR application |
| Stage 6: Calculate PR Points | Use points calculator to check eligibility | Before PR lodgement | Need 65+ points minimum |
| Stage 7: Lodge PR Application | Apply for Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa | When eligible | Permanent residency granted |
Gain Local Work Experience – Work in your nominated occupation to strengthen your PR application.
Skill Assessment – Use your Australian qualifications and work history for positive skill assessments.
Points Calculation – Work experience, regional opportunities, and English scores contribute points for skilled migration visas.
Apply for PR Visas – Most graduates move from the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa to skilled migration visas such as Subclass 189 or 190.
Tips to Improve Your PR Prospects After the 485
PR Points Maximization Strategies
| Strategy | Action Steps | Potential PR Points Gain | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Improve English Scores | Achieve PTE 79+ or IELTS 8 in all bands | +10 to +20 points | 2-3 months preparation |
| Work in Regional Areas | Employment in regional Australia during 485 | +5 to +15 points | During 485 visa period |
| Upgrade Skills | Complete Professional Year or additional courses | +5 points | 12 months |
| Gain More Work Experience | Accumulate 3+ years Australian experience | +10 to +20 points | 3+ years |
| Partner Skills | Partner completes skill assessment and English | +5 to +10 points | Varies |
| NAATI CCL | Complete community language credential | +5 points | 2-3 months |
| State Nomination | Apply for Victoria/NSW/QLD state sponsorship | +5 points (190) or +15 points (491) | 3-6 months |
Improve English Scores – Better scores earn additional PR points.
Look at Regional Areas – Working or studying in regional Australia gives considerable bonus points.
Upgrade Skills – Extra courses or professional year programs enhance suitability.
Stay Informed of Policy Changes – Immigration policy changes regularly, so check the latest specifications.
Visa Pathway Comparison: 485 to PR
| PR Visa Type | Points Required | State Sponsorship | Regional Requirement | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) | 65+ points (competitive 85+) | No | No | 6-12 months |
| Subclass 190 (State Nominated) | 65+ points (competitive 75+) | Yes (Victoria, NSW, etc.) | No | 6-12 months |
| Subclass 491 (Regional Sponsored) | 65+ points (easier threshold) | Yes (regional areas) | Must live/work 3 years in region | 6-12 months |
485 Visa Application Checklist
| Requirement | Details | Where to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Completed Course | 2+ years Australian study (CRICOS) | Education provider |
| English Test Results | IELTS 6.0/PTE 50/TOEFL 64 | Test centers |
| Health Insurance | OSHC or private health cover | Insurance provider |
| Health Examination | Medical from panel doctor | Approved panel doctors |
| Character Documents | Police clearances | Relevant authorities |
| Skill Assessment | For Graduate Work Stream only | Assessing authority |
| Application Fee | Current fee (approx AUD 1,895) | Department of Home Affairs |
| Passport | Valid passport | Government passport office |
Conclusion
The graduate visa Australia is not just an extension of your stay but is considered a steppingstone towards Permanent Residency. The right courses, such as nursing, early childhood education, engineering, bricklaying, construction, cabinet making, teaching, accounting, or leadership and management, can be selected by students to directly align their qualifications with PR opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- The 485 temporary graduate visa offers 18 months to 4 years of work rights after graduation
- Choose PR-aligned courses from Diploma of Nursing Australia, certificate iii in engineering fabrication trade, early childhood education course Australia, bricklaying course, diploma of civil construction design, teaching courses in Australia, and more
- Complete positive skill assessment for your nominated occupation
- Gain Australian work experience during 485 visa period (worth 5-20 PR points)
- Improve English to PTE 79+ or IELTS 8 for maximum PR points
- Consider regional work for additional 5-15 PR points
- Transition from 485 to Subclass 189, 190, or 491 skilled migration visa
With proper planning, skills can be gained, work experience can be acquired, and students can be moved closer to making Australia their permanent home through the 485 temporary graduate visa.
Get Expert PR Planning Support After Graduation
Shri Krishna Educational Consultants – Melbourne’s trusted migration specialists – offers comprehensive support for your PR journey:
- Course selection aligned with skilled migration visa pathways
- 485 temporary graduate visa application and compliance
- Skill assessment guidance for all occupations
- PR points calculation and optimization strategies
- Subclass 189, 190, and 491 application assistance
- English improvement strategies for maximum PR points
- Regional work and state nomination guidance
As MARA-registered migration agents with 10+ years of experience, we’ve helped hundreds of international students successfully transition from graduate visa Australia to Permanent Residency.
Start planning your PR journey today with expert guidance!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General 485 Visa Questions
Q1. What is the 485 temporary graduate visa and how does it help with PR?
The 485 temporary graduate visa allows international students who have completed at least 2 years of Australian study to remain in Australia to work, study, and travel. It provides 18 months to 4 years (depending on qualification level) to gain Australian work experience, which is crucial for earning PR points and completing skill assessments required for permanent residency visas like Subclass 189, 190, or 491.
Q2. How long can I stay in Australia on the 485 visa?
The duration depends on your qualification and stream. Graduate Work Stream offers up to 18 months for trade qualifications. Post-Study Work Stream offers 2 years for Bachelor’s degrees, 2 years for Master’s (coursework), 3 years for Master’s (research), and 4 years for Doctoral degrees.
Q3. What are the English requirements for the 485 visa?
You must demonstrate functional English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.0 in each band, PTE Academic 50 overall with minimum 36 in each component, or TOEFL iBT 64 overall. Test results must be within 2 years of your application date.
Q4. Can I apply for the 485 visa while my Student Visa is still valid?
Yes, you can apply for the graduate visa Australia while your Student Visa is still valid, but you must apply within 6 months of completing your course. Applying before your Student Visa expires ensures you receive a bridging visa and maintain lawful status during processing.
Q5. What is the difference between Graduate Work Stream and Post-Study Work Stream?
Graduate Work Stream is for trade qualifications (certificates and diplomas) on the skilled occupation list and provides up to 18 months. Post-Study Work Stream is for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD graduates and provides 2-4 years depending on qualification level. Graduate Work Stream requires skill assessment before application, while Post-Study Work Stream does not.
Course Selection Questions
Q6. Which courses offer the best PR opportunities after graduation?
High-demand PR courses include Diploma of Nursing Australia, certificate iii in engineering fabrication trade, early childhood education course Australia, certificate iii in bricklaying, diploma of civil construction design, teaching courses in Australia, accounting courses, and diploma of leadership & management. These align with occupations on the skilled occupation list.
Q7. Can I study a Diploma of Nursing Australia and get PR?
Yes, the Diploma of Nursing Australia leads to the occupation of Enrolled Nurse, which is on the skilled occupation list. After completing your diploma, you can apply for the 485 visa (Graduate Work Stream), gain work experience, complete skill assessment, and then apply for PR through Subclass 189, 190, or 491 pathways.
Q8. Are engineering courses good for PR in Australia?
Yes, engineering courses like certificate iii in engineering fabrication trade, diploma of civil engineering, and Bachelor of Engineering are excellent for PR. Engineering occupations consistently appear on the skilled occupation list with high demand, making them reliable pathways to permanent residency.
Q9. Is teaching a good pathway to PR in Australia?
Yes, teaching is a strong PR pathway. Qualifications like master of teaching in Australia and masters of teaching Melbourne lead to occupations like Primary Teacher, Secondary Teacher, and Early Childhood Teacher, which are on the skilled occupation list. However, you’ll need to meet Australian teaching standards and registration requirements.
Work Experience and PR Points Questions
Q10. How much work experience do I need on the 485 visa for PR?
Australian work experience on your 485 temporary graduate visa earns you PR points: 1 year = 5 points, 3 years = 10 points, 5 years = 15 points, 8+ years = 20 points. Most students aim for 1-3 years of work experience during their 485 visa period to strengthen their PR application.
Q11. Can I work in any job on the 485 visa or only my nominated occupation?
You can work in any job on the graduate visa Australia without restrictions. However, to earn PR points and complete skill assessment successfully, it’s best to work in your nominated occupation (the occupation related to your qualification and PR pathway).
Q12. Does working in regional areas help with PR?
Yes, working in regional Australia during your 485 visa period can earn you additional PR points (5-15 points depending on the visa subclass). Regional work also opens pathways to the Subclass 491 Regional Sponsored visa, which has lower points requirements than Subclass 189.
Skill Assessment Questions
Q13. When should I complete my skill assessment for PR?
For Graduate Work Stream, you must complete skill assessment before applying for the 485 visa. For Post-Study Work Stream, you complete skill assessment during your 485 visa period when you’re ready to apply for PR. Skill assessment typically takes 2-3 months and requires Australian work experience and qualifications.
Q14. What is a skill assessment and which authority assesses my occupation?
A skill assessment is a formal evaluation by a designated assessing authority that confirms your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Different authorities assess different occupations: ANMAC for nurses, Engineers Australia for engineers, ACECQA for early childhood teachers, etc.
PR Application Questions
Q15. What PR points score do I need to be invited for PR?
The minimum points threshold is 65 points for Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas. However, competitive scores are much higher: typically 85+ points for Subclass 189, 75-85 points for Subclass 190, and 70-80 points for Subclass 491. Points requirements vary by occupation and invitation round.
Specific Course Pathways Questions
Q16. How long does it take from graduation to getting PR in Australia?
The timeline varies by individual circumstances: Course completion → Apply for 485 visa within 6 months → Work 1-3 years on 485 visa → Complete skill assessment (2-3 months) → Accumulate sufficient PR points → Lodge PR application → Wait for invitation and processing (6-12 months). Total timeline from graduation to PR typically ranges from 2-5 years.
Q17. Can I do a diploma of early childhood education and care and get PR?
Yes, the diploma of early childhood education and care leads to the Early Childhood Educator occupation on the skilled occupation list. After completing this diploma, you can apply for the 485 visa, gain work experience, complete skill assessment with ACECQA, and apply for PR. Many students then upgrade to Bachelor of Early Childhood Education for the higher-demand Early Childhood Teacher occupation.
Q18. Is a certificate iii in bricklaying enough for PR?
Yes, a certificate iii in bricklaying is sufficient for PR. Bricklayers are on the skilled occupation list with consistent demand. After completing your certificate, you apply for the 485 visa (Graduate Work Stream, 18 months), gain work experience, complete skill assessment with TRA (Trades Recognition Australia), and apply for PR. Bricklaying is considered one of the most reliable trade pathways to PR.
Q19. What nursing pathway is fastest for PR: Diploma or Bachelor?
The Diploma of Nursing Australia (18-24 months) is faster to complete than a Bachelor of Nursing (3 years), but both lead to PR-eligible occupations. Diploma graduates become Enrolled Nurses, while Bachelor graduates become Registered Nurses. Registered Nurses generally have more job opportunities and higher points in PR invitations. Many students start with diploma, work as enrolled nurses, then upgrade to bachelor’s degree.
English Requirements Questions
Q20. How can I improve my English score for maximum PR points?
To achieve Superior English (PTE 79+ or IELTS 8 in each band) for +20 PR points: Take intensive English courses, practice PTE/IELTS mock tests regularly (2-3 times per week), focus on speaking and writing sections, use online platforms like PTE tutorials, consider professional English coaching, and attempt the test multiple times. Most students improve 10-15 points with 2-3 months of dedicated study.
Family and Dependent Questions
Q21. Can I include my spouse and children on my 485 visa?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children on your 485 temporary graduate visa application. They will receive work and study rights in Australia. Including family members increases visa costs but allows them to gain Australian experience and potentially earn partner points (+5-10 points) toward your PR application.
Read More –
Seven Best Courses in Australia for International Students to Get Permanent Residency 2026
