Many international students in Australia aspire to secure permanent residency (PR) after completing their studies. This guide outlines the key Gala Paths to achieve PR,
Many international students in Australia aspire to secure permanent residency (PR) after completing their studies. This guide outlines the key Gala Paths to achieve PR, based on your qualifications, skills, age, and other factors.
GalaPaths to Permanent Residency
Depending on your field of study, academic qualifications, age, skills, and other factors, there are several Gala Paths to secure permanent residency in Australia. Below, we outline the main options available.
1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students to stay in Australia for 2–4 years (depending on study level) to gain work experience and improve English proficiency. While not a direct path to PR, it enhances eligibility for skilled or employer-sponsored visas.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be under 35 years old.
- Have held a student visa in the past 6 months.
- Have completed a CRICOS-registered course (minimum 2 years of full-time study).
Tip: Use the Subclass 485 visa to build work experience and skills before applying for PR-eligible visas.
2. General Skilled Migration (GSM)
The General Skilled Migration program is a points-based Gala Path to PR, ideal for students with in-demand skills. The main visa options are:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): A permanent visa not requiring sponsorship.
Eligibility:
- Occupation on the skilled occupation list
- Positive skills assessment
- Minimum 65 points (based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency)
- IELTS score of 7 (or equivalent)
Read the information about the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): A permanent visa requiring nomination by a state or territory (adds 5 points).
Eligibility:
- Occupation on the skilled occupation list
- Positive skills assessment
- Minimum 65 points (based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency)
- IELTS score of 7 (or equivalent)
- Nomination by a state/territory nomination
Read the information about the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
A 5-year provisional visa for regional areas (excluding Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane). After 3 years in a regional area, apply for PR via the Subclass 191 visa.
Eligibility:
- Be under 45 years old
- Occupation on the skilled occupation list
- Minimum 65 points (based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency)
- IELTS score of 7 (or equivalent)
- Nomination by a state/territory or sponsorship by an eligible family member (adds 15 points)
Read the information about the skilled worker 491 visa
3. Employer-Sponsored Gala Paths
These visas are suitable for students who secure a job offer from an Australian employer.
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
The Subclass 186 visa leads directly to permanent residency.
Eligibility:
- At least 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Nomination by an approved employer.
- Positive skills assessment.
- Be under 45 years old.
- IELTS 6 (or equivalent).
- Occupation on the Subclass 186 skilled occupation list.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
A temporary visa (up to 4 years) that can lead to PR via Subclass 186 after 3 years with the same employer.
Eligibility:
- Be nominated by an approved sponsor
- At least 1 year of relevant work experience
- IELTS 5 (or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment
- Health insurance
Training Visa (Subclass 407)
A temporary visa for training (up to 2 years). After gaining 2 years of work experience, you may qualify for the Subclass 482 visa with employer sponsorship.
4. Other Pathways
Continuing Education
Extend your stay by enrolling in further studies. Requirements include a new student visa, proof of financial capacity, extended Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and admission to a CRICOS-registered institution.
Partner Visa
If you form a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or PR holder, you may apply for a partner visa, supported by evidence of the relationship.
Summary
International students can pursue PR through two main routes:
- Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Stay in Australia to gain work experience, then apply for skilled or employer-sponsored visas.
- Direct PR Application: If you meet the criteria, apply directly for skilled (Subclass 189, 190, 491) or employer-sponsored (Subclass 186, 482) visas.
For more details, visit official Australian visa resources or consult a migration agent for personalized advice.
