Getting Australia PR depends on your skills, age, English ability and occupation demand. It can be competitive, especially for independent visas (Subclass 189) but many applicants succeed through state nomination (Subclass 190) or regional pathways (Subclass 491). With the right planning, it’s achievable.

Yes. Australia continues to need skilled workers, and 2025 migration quotas favor occupations in health, IT, engineering, and trades. If your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and you meet Australia PR requirements, this is a good time to apply.

The hardest part is usually meeting the points threshold and getting an invitation to apply. English test scores, skills assessment, and finding the right visa stream are the biggest hurdles.

International students can transition from a Student visa to PR by:

Completing a CRICOS-registered course

Applying for a Temporary Graduate visa (485) for post-study work rights

Gaining skilled work experience

Applying through the points system or state nomination

Nursing, IT and engineering graduates often have higher chances due to strong demand.

Unfortunately, if you’re over 45, you are not eligible for most skilled visas under the points system. However, alternative options may exist such as employer sponsorship, business visas or family visas.

Studying nursing in Australia is one of the most popular pathways to PR because nurses are in high demand nationwide. While many students choose this course with PR in mind, you should also ensure it suits your career goals.

Accountants are on the Skilled Occupation List but face high competition. To succeed, you usually need superior English scores, relevant work experience, and sometimes a state or regional nomination.

Yes, this is a common pathway. Many students complete their studies, apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (485), gain local work experience and then apply for PR through skilled migration.

• Right to live, work and study in Australia indefinitely

• Access to Medicare (public healthcare)

• Ability to sponsor eligible family members

• Pathway to citizenship

• Freedom to travel in and out of Australia (with a valid travel facility)

You don’t automatically lose PR. However, you need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to come back to Australia if you’ve been away for more than 5 years. To keep PR long-term, you must meet residency requirements.

You can leave Australia while your PR application is under process. The application won’t be cancelled, but you must keep your visa conditions valid and ensure you can return if the Department of Home Affairs requests further information.

• Marriage: If you marry an Australian citizen or PR holder, you may apply for a Partner visa which can lead to permanent residency.

• PhD: Completing a PhD in Australia can give you extra points on the Australia immigration points calculator, increasing your PR chances.

No. To claim points for skilled employment in Australia, the work must be for an Australian-based employer and comply with Australian taxation and employment laws. Remote work for a foreign company does not count toward Australian skilled work points.