Ever wondered why many Indian students opt to study in Australia? Well, statistics indicate that 15% of all the international students studying in Australia are from India.
With its great universities, educational scope and high standard of living, Australia is a home for almost 30% of Indian students studying abroad. But here is the interesting part: were you aware that after completing their studies many Indian students also consider the option to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Australia?
As a matter of fact, an impressive 70% of Indian students select Australia as their study destination because of the opportunity to get PR.
This blog will cover the procedures and prerequisites for Indian students to secure PR in Australia as well as some suggestions for an effective application process.
Understanding Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia
Before going into the detailed pathways, it is essential to know what permanent residency in Australia is all about. Australian permanent residency gives people the right to live, work and study in Australia forever. It also entitles one to medical care through Medicare and allows application for Australian citizenship upon meeting the residency requirements. Furthermore, as a permanent resident, you can sponsor family members for permanent residency and access social security benefits among others.
How to Get PR in Australia for Indian Students
Here is a detailed guide for Indian students who have decided to live in Australia on a permanent basis, with step-by-step instructions, examples, and eligibility criteria.
Step 1: Choose the Right Course and Institution
For Indian students who wish to get PR in Australia, choosing a course that is in high demand and aligns with the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) is critical.
For example, data science, healthcare, engineering and project management are some of the popular courses that may improve your chances for a better PR.
Going for an institution with an established reputation can give you more credibility and increase your PR prospects further.
Step 2: Choose the Right Visa
When aiming at getting a permanent residency in Australia, Indian students must be careful to select the most appropriate visa subclass according to their individual circumstances and long-term objectives.
Some of the common visa options include the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) which is for recent graduates, the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) which is for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer and the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) which is for individuals nominated by a state or territory government.
Understanding what each visa subclass requires in terms of eligibility criteria and requirements is important before making a decision.
Step 3: Fulfill Visa Requirements
Satisfying the conditions of eligibility and visa requirements of the chosen subclass are prerequisites for getting PR in Australia.
For example, among the many requirements that need to be fulfilled is showing proficiency in the English language through a certain score in either IELTS or PTE, providing proof of health insurance, and getting a positive skills assessment in an occupation.
Accuracy and detail when preparing documents for visa applications will ensure that no delays or rejections occur.
Step 4: Pay Visa Application Fee
For successful completion of your visa application process, it is crucial to make payment of the prescribed visa application fee. The amount may vary depending on the type of visa you choose.
Below is a table giving information on various types of visas and their corresponding application fees:
|
Visa Type |
Application Fees |
|
Skilled Independent |
$4,045 |
|
Employer-Sponsored |
$4,045 |
|
Business Innovation |
$4,045 |
|
Student |
$620 |
|
Partner |
$7,715 |
| Visitor |
$145 |
Step 5: Gain Work Experience
Gaining the right work experience in Australia will significantly increase your chances of getting PR. Taking internships, part-time jobs in your field of study, or joining professional year programs will provide you with practical work experience which may be required for some visa subclasses.
For example, the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) often demands that applicants should have worked for a certain period of time in a nominated occupation thus, it is crucial to acquire relevant work experience while in Australia.
Step 6: Look into Regional Migration Options
The regional migration programs offer extra routes to PR for Indian students. For instance, the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) gives an opportunity to skilled workers to live and work in regional areas of Australia.
The scheme needs sponsorship from an eligible employer located in the region. Also, there is a similar requirement for applicants who want to apply for the Skilled Regional Visa which makes them live and work in regional areas for at least three years before they can apply for PR.
Step 7: Enhance Your Points-Based Test Score
Points-based test is a critical factor that determines if you are eligible for PR in Australia. It assesses the competencies of applicants in different areas and assigns points based on their performance.
To boost their scores Indian students can concentrate on factors such as English language proficiency, education qualifications, work experience and additional criteria like regional study or sponsorship.
By illustration, acquiring more qualifications or certifications, pursuing regional studies or getting sponsorship from an employer will help improve their points-based score system.
Step 8: Stay Informed about Changes in Immigration Policies
Australia’s immigration policies undergo constant changes, and it is a necessity for Indian students to be aware of the latest updates to navigate the PR pathway.
The easiest way to stay up-to-date is to check the official website of the Department of Home Affairs on a regular basis, get advice from registered migration agents, and connect with well-known migration consultants.
With a proactive and well-informed approach, no unexpected problems may arise in the PR application process.
Step 9: Apply for Permanent Residency
Upon fulfilling prerequisites for PR like having finished the required period of study and having relevant work experience, Indian students can proceed to apply for permanent residency in Australia.
Usually starting off by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect is a common first step followed by making a formal PR application after receiving an invitation.
Professional advice and support could expedite the application process and guarantee that all essential documents are submitted accurately and within the stipulated period.
Pathways to Permanent Residency for Indian Students
-
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189):
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a common choice for overseas students who have completed their studies and wish to become permanent residents in Australia. This visa is suitable for Indian students who have finished a relevant course and possess skills and qualifications that are highly sought after in the Australian labor market.
It should be noted that the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) visa is points and applicants are awarded points on a variety of factors like age, work experience, education, English proficiency, etc. The more points an applicant scores the better his/her chances of getting an invitation to apply for the visa.
-
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186):
The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is yet another path to the permanent residency of Indian students. This visa is perfect for students who have found employment with an Australian employer that is ready to sponsor them for a permanent residency. To be eligible for the visa, the applicant must first find an employment offer from an Australian employer who is ready to sponsor him/her.
Once this visa is granted, the holder can work in Australia with his/her sponsoring employer indefinitely. After three years of holding this visa, he/she may apply for Australian citizenship.
-
Partner Visas:
If an Indian student has a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, they may qualify for a Partner Visa which leads to permanent residency. There are two types of partner visas – onshore and offshore.
An onshore partner visa permits Indian students to apply for a partner visa while in Australia after their current student visa expires. The offshore partner visa on the other hand allows Indian students to apply from outside Australia.
When granted, Partner Visa permits Indian students to enter and leave Australia multiple times, work in Australia and get access to Medicare. After two years of holding this visa, they can apply for permanent residency.
-
General Skilled Migration (GSM):
The General Skilled Migration Program is a points-based program that encourages skilled workers to come to Australia. There are several visa subclasses within the program, which Indian students may be eligible for, including Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491). For eligibility, Indian students should be first nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
After having a regional GSM visa for three years, Indian students can apply for permanent residency.
Tips on How to Increase Your Chances of Securing Australia PR
No matter the route taken, there are a number of common requirements and considerations that Indian students will need to keep in mind if they want to stay in Australia on a permanent basis. These include:
- English Language Proficiency: Many pathways leading to visa applications require Indian students to demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency by taking tests like IELTS or PTE Academic. A higher score can be beneficial in the process of obtaining permanent residency.
- Skill Assessment: For some occupations, it is necessary for an Indian student to undergo a skills assessment from an appropriate assessing authority which would certify that the qualifications and experience of the Indian student are at par with Australian standards. The relevant documentation needs to be collected and the assessment process undergone before making an application for permanent residency.
- Work Experience: Having work experience that is relevant in Australia, particularly in regional areas significantly increases an Indian student’s chances of being granted permanent residency. Students may consider getting internships, part-time jobs, or cooperative education opportunities so as to gain this valuable work experience.
- Understanding Visa Conditions: Indian students should have a good grasp of all conditions and obligations attached to their student visas as well as any subsequent permanent residency pathways. This includes compliance with visa regulations, maintenance of genuine temporary entrant status and ensuring that all visa conditions are satisfied throughout their stay in Australia.
Migration Changes and Updates: Laws and policies governing Australian immigration change regularly hence; Indian students must keep themselves updated with the latest developments, updates and policy changes that may affect their eligibility for permanent residency. They could do this by checking regularly the official Australian government websites as well as consulting registered migration agents or immigration lawyers who could help them make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Getting PR in Australia is a big milestone for Indian students who are looking forward to their future in this country. The students, by getting a deeper understanding of the PR process, fulfilling the eligibility criteria, and submitting strong applications, can increase their chances of obtaining PR and building a bright career in Australia.
If you are an Indian student dreaming of a prosperous future in Australia, we welcome you to get in touch with Ausyes Migration today. Let us be your guide to turn your PR dream into reality and start a thrilling and rewarding journey in Australia. Contact us now for our assistance on your path to PR.
Get in touch with Ausyes Migration today and allow us to help you realize your dreams of PR in Australia.
Also Read: Top Courses to PR Pathways in Australia 2024
