Are you ready to take the next step in your Australian journey after completing your studies? Many international students dream of continuing their stay in Australia after their student visa expires, and fortunately, it’s possible! If you’re looking to transition from a student visa (subclass 500) to a work visa, you’re not alone. Thousands of students make this transition every year, seizing the opportunity to further their careers, gain work experience, and build a life in one of the world’s most vibrant countries.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about switching from a student visa to a work visa in Australia. Whether you’re looking to gain practical experience or find a pathway to permanent residency, this article will help you understand your options and the steps involved.
Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Why Switch from a Student Visa to a Work Visa in Australia?
Thinking about staying in Australia after finishing your studies? Here’s why converting your student visa to a work visa could be the right move for you.
1. Career Growth
A work visa allows you to gain valuable experience in your field of study. Whether you want to work in healthcare, engineering, IT, or education, having a work visa gives you the opportunity to apply the skills you’ve gained and build your professional profile.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many work visas in Australia lead to permanent residency (PR). If your long-term goal is to make Australia your permanent home, switching to a work visa can help you achieve that.
3. Financial Independence
Working in Australia means you can support yourself financially. A work visa allows you to earn a stable income, helping you build your career and secure your future in the country.
4. Stay in Australia
With a work visa, you get to enjoy Australia’s high quality of life and vibrant culture. Whether it’s the beautiful landscapes, the diverse community, or the laid-back lifestyle, living and working in Australia has plenty to offer.
If you’re ready to take the next step, let’s look at the different visa options available for students like you.
Different Visas for Transitioning from Student to Work Visa
Australia offers several visa options for students who wish to transition to work after their studies. Let’s look at the main options available to you.
1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is specifically for international students who have just completed their studies in Australia. With this visa you get to stay in Australia temporarily while gaining practical work experience in your field of study. It’s perfect for graduates who want to enhance their skills and make themselves more competitive in the Australian job market.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: To apply, you must be under 35 years of age (exceptions may apply) and have held a valid student visa in the past six months. You must also have recently completed a qualification in a CRICOS-registered course. It’s important to apply for the correct stream as it is not possible to change streams after submitting your application. You must provide the required evidence when you apply.
- Duration: This visa allows you to stay and work in Australia temporarily. Depending on the qualification level, the visa can last from 18 months to four years.
- Work Rights: You are allowed full-time work rights during the validity of your visa, which is an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience in Australia.
- Pathway to PR: While the Subclass 485 is a temporary visa, it can act as a stepping stone to permanent residency. You can apply for permanent visas like the Subclass 189 or Subclass 190 after gaining sufficient work experience.
This visa is a great option if you want to stay in Australia temporarily to gain work experience and increase your chances of securing permanent residency in the future.
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory. If your skills are in demand in a specific state, this visa allows you to live and work in that state or territory, with the possibility of transitioning to permanent residency.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: You need to have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list (SOL) and a suitable skills assessment for the occupation. You must be nominated by a state or territory government and invited to apply. Additionally, you must meet the points test to determine your eligibility.
- Duration: The Subclass 190 visa grants permanent residency, which allows you to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
- Work Rights: You have full work rights across Australia, but you must live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.
- Pathway to PR: The Subclass 190 visa provides direct permanent residency, giving you access to permanent work and settlement rights in Australia.
The Subclass 190 visa is ideal if you’ve been nominated by a state or territory and are ready to make Australia your permanent home.
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in regional Australia. This visa is perfect if you’re looking to move away from the major cities and experience a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle, while still contributing to Australia’s workforce.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by any eligible relative living in regional Australia. Your occupation must be on the relevant SOL, and you must take a suitable skills assessment. Like other skilled visas, you must be invited to apply and meet the points test.
- Duration: This visa is provisional and typically lasts for five years. However, after three years of holding the visa and meeting the residency requirements, you may apply for permanent residency (PR) through the Skilled Regional (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 191).
- Work Rights: You can work full-time in regional Australia during the duration of your visa. You will also have the right to bring your immediate family members with you.
- Pathway to PR: After living and working in regional Australia for three years, you may be eligible for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
If you’re open to living in a regional area of Australia, the Subclass 491 visa provides a great opportunity to build a career and eventually settle permanently.
4. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) is designed for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian employer for permanent employment. This visa is ideal for students who after completing their studies have secured a job offer from an Australian employer.
Key Features:
- Eligibility: To apply, you must have the necessary skills and experience for the job being offered by the employer. The employer must nominate you for the position, and you must meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Duration: The Subclass 186 visa grants permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Work Rights: As a permanent resident, you will have full work rights across Australia, and you can also include your family members in your application.
- Pathway to PR: This visa is a permanent residency visa, providing you with direct access to long-term settlement, work, and study rights in Australia.
The Subclass 186 is ideal for those who have secured a job offer and want to stay in Australia permanently, benefiting from employer sponsorship.
Each of these visa options has different eligibility criteria, so it’s important to choose the one that best aligns with your career goals and qualifications. Let’s now look at the steps you need to follow to convert your student visa into a work visa.
How to Convert Your Student Visa to a Work Visa?
Transitioning from student visa to a work visa in Australia may seem like a complex process, but by following these steps, you can make it as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
Before applying for a work visa, you need to check which visa best suits your qualifications and career goals. You can start by checking the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to see if your profession is in demand. If your occupation is listed, you’re already one step closer to securing a work visa.
Step 2: Apply for a Skills Assessment
For many work visas, a skills assessment is necessary to confirm that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. To start this process, reach out to the appropriate assessing authority for your occupation.
Step 3: Improve Your Points Score (If Applicable)
For points-tested visas like the Subclass 189 or 190, you’ll need to score a certain number of points based on factors like age, qualifications, work experience, and English language skills. To improve your score:
- Gain more work experience in your field.
- Improve your English proficiency by achieving higher scores in tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Obtain additional qualifications, especially if they’re Australian qualifications, as they carry extra points.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need several documents to submit your application, including:
- Your passport.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Skills assessment results.
- English language proficiency test results.
Ensure you have all documents ready to avoid delays.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once you have everything in order, submit your application through the ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website. Don’t forget to pay the application fee and upload all the required documents.
Step 6: Await Visa Processing
After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your visa. Processing times vary depending on the visa type, so keep track of your application status and stay patient.
By following these steps, you’ll be on the path to converting your student visa to a work visa and continuing your journey in Australia.
Tips for a Successful Transition
Are you ready to smoothly transition from a student visa to a work visa? Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process.
1. Start Early
Start your visa application well before your student visa expires. This gives you plenty of time to gather documents and meet all the requirements.
2. Seek Professional Guidance
If your case is complex or if you’re unsure about the process, it’s always a good idea to consult a registered migration agent like Knowbal. We can provide expert advice personalised to your situation.
3. Stay Compliant
Ensure you follow all visa conditions. If you fail to meet these requirements, it could jeopardise your visa application.
4. Network Effectively
Building connections in your field can help you secure a job offer or gain valuable advice. Attend industry events, connect with alumni, and make use of online professional platforms like LinkedIn.
5. Stay Informed
Immigration policies and occupation lists can change, so it’s essential to keep up-to-date with the latest information. Check the Department of Home Affairs website regularly for updates.
These tips will help you with the transition successfully and ensure you are on track to secure your work visa.
Final Thoughts
Switching from a student visa to a work visa is an exciting step towards building your future in Australia. By following the steps, understanding your visa options, and preparing the right documents, you can make this transition smoothly and open the door to new career opportunities.
If you’re ready to start the process and need expert advice, Knowbal is here to help. Our experienced migration agents can guide you through every step and ensure that your visa application is successful.
Contact Knowbal today for professional assistance in visas transitioning.