Overview of Permanent Residency in Australia
Australia is a popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education and excellent career opportunities. One of the advantages of studying in Australia is the opportunity to obtain permanent residency (PR) after graduation.
There are several pathways to obtaining PR in Australia, including skilled migration, employer sponsorship, and family sponsorship. However, one of the most common pathways for international students is the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), which is a points-based visa that does not require employer or family sponsorship.
To be eligible for the subclass 189 visa, you must first complete an eligible course of study in Australia and meet other criteria such as age, English proficiency, and health and character requirements. In this article, we will discuss what to study in Australia to increase your chances of obtaining PR through the subclass 189 visa pathway.
Studying Fields with High-Demand Occupations
One way to maximize your chances of obtaining PR in Australia is to study fields that have high-demand occupations. The Australian government publishes a list of skilled occupations that are in demand in different regions of the country, known as the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Studying in fields that are on the MLTSSL can increase your chances of obtaining PR through the subclass 189 visa pathway. Some examples of high-demand occupations on the MLTSSL include accountants, IT professionals, engineers, healthcare workers, and teachers.
It is important to note that the MLTSSL is subject to change, and some occupations may be removed or added to the list depending on the needs of the Australian economy. Therefore, it is advisable to research current and future trends in the Australian job market before choosing a field of study.
Pursuing Postgraduate Studies
Another way to increase your chances of obtaining PR in Australia is to pursue postgraduate studies after completing your undergraduate degree. The subclass 189 visa pathway awards additional points for higher qualifications, such as master’s or doctoral degrees.
Pursuing postgraduate studies can also help you specialize in a high-demand field and gain advanced skills and knowledge that are valued by Australian employers. Many Australian universities offer postgraduate courses in areas such as business, engineering, science, and healthcare.
Postgraduate studies can be expensive, but there are options for funding such as scholarships, bursaries, and research assistantships. It is also important to consider the return on investment in terms of career prospects and potential earnings after graduation.
Developing Soft Skills and Work Experience
In addition to academic qualifications, developing soft skills and gaining work experience can also increase your chances of obtaining PR in Australia. Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership are highly valued by Australian employers, and can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Gaining work experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work can also demonstrate your practical skills and industry knowledge to potential employers. Work experience can also provide you with networking opportunities and references that can support your job search and PR application.
It is important to note that work experience gained outside of Australia may not be recognized by Australian employers or immigration authorities. Therefore, it is advisable to seek relevant work experience within Australia while studying, or to participate in programs such as the Professional Year Program that provide structured work experience and training for international graduates in specific fields.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, obtaining permanent residency in Australia can provide many benefits for international students who want to live and work in the country indefinitely. To maximize your chances of obtaining PR, it is advisable to study fields with high-demand occupations, pursue postgraduate studies, develop soft skills and gain work experience within Australia. It is important to research current and future trends in the Australian job market, plan your career goals, and seek guidance from immigration professionals or university advisors to ensure a smooth transition from studying to working and living in Australia indefinitely.
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