How to Get PR After Study in Australia — What International Students Must Know 

Many international students dream of staying in Australia long term. But what most don’t realise is this: **getting a skilled, full-time job is the most powerful pathway to permanent residency (PR).**

If you’re unsure where to start or feel stuck because you don’t have PR yet — this article is for you.

Why a Skilled Job Is the Game Changer

Australia’s PR system is points-based. Points are awarded for things like age, education, and English level — but **the biggest boost often comes from full-time, skilled work experience.**

Whether you apply through the General Skilled Migration stream or get sponsored by an employer, **a skilled job is what takes you from graduation to PR.**

What Most International Students Don’t Know

- You don’t need PR to get a job — but you do need a job to get PR.
- Employers can sponsor you if they see your value.
- A 1–2 year skilled job can often lead to PR through multiple pathways.

**Translation: PR doesn’t happen after you graduate. It happens after you gain skilled work experience.**

Why Timing Matters — But Keep It Simple

Many students wait too long — they focus only on studies, and begin their job search months after graduation. By then, their visa clock is ticking.

**The earlier you land a skilled job, the more options you have.** Even one skilled role can open doors to multiple PR pathways, especially if it's in demand or regional.

What’s at Stake If You Wait

If you delay your job search:
- You lose PR points every year you age.
- You risk running out of time on your temporary visa.
- You may need to study again — just to stay longer.

**You could spend an extra $30,000–$50,000 and 1–2 more years — just to get back on track.**

The Fastest Path to PR Starts with a Job — Not a Visa

Migration agents help you submit paperwork. But **getting that skilled job? That’s where I come in.**

My system helps international students and migrants get hired fast — even without PR, local experience, or connections.

Because the moment you start working in a skilled role is the moment your PR journey truly begins.

FAQs

How can I get PR in Australia after studying?

You can apply through General Skilled Migration or employer sponsorship. The most effective path is gaining full-time work experience in a skilled occupation.

Can I get PR with a 485 visa alone?

No — the 485 visa is temporary. You need skilled work experience to meet PR requirements through points or sponsorship.

Do I need PR to get a job in Australia?

No. Many employers hire international graduates on temporary visas and may sponsor you if your skills match what they need.

Want to Land a Skilled Job That Gets You Closer to PR?

Download the Skilled Job Starter Kit — built for international students and migrants who want to get hired faster.

Inside, you’ll find:
✅ A resume template that gets interviews
✅ A LinkedIn checklist that attracts recruiters
✅ Interview scripts that show your confidence