Post Study Work And Stay Rights For Pakistani Students In Australia

Australia was a popular choice among international students, including those from Pakistan. Australia has been known for its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and attractive lifestyle. Along the outstanding study environment, the Australian government plays a pivotal role in facilitating post-study work opportunities for international students. Through streamlined visa pathways and skill-based policies, they enable graduates to apply their knowledge and contribute to the Australian workforce.

Certainly, in this article, we will delve into the dynamic landscape of post-study work opportunities in Australia.

Updates By Australian Government On Post Study Work Options

The Australian government has taken proactive measures to establish a robust framework that not only attracts international students but also empowers them to embark on successful career paths after completing their studies.

Rules implemented from 1^st July 2023: International graduates who match the requirements will obtain an additional two years of post-study employment privileges on their temporary graduate visa beginning on July 1st, 2023. These expanded Post-Study Work rights are applicable to eligible professions and credentials. Medical and nursing are a few types of acceptable course work. Engineering, Allied Health, Teaching, Agriculture, and ICT are some of the course categories that qualify. In addition, the government has raised the maximum number of hours that an overseas student may work during their studies per fortnight from 40 to 48.

Australian Visas For International Students To Consider

For international students considering Australia as their study destination, there are two visa options to explore, each catering to different stages of their educational journey and after graduation:

• Student Visa (Subclass 500)

• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Types of Post-Study Work Permits in Australia 

In Australia, post-study work permits are primarily available through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This visa offers two distinct streams, each catering to different levels of qualifications and providing opportunities for international students to gain work experience after completing their studies:

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - Post-Study Work Stream:

Does not require a job offer in Australia prior to application, providing the freedom to explore various employment opportunities in the country.

• Duration: Allows international students who have completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree in Australia to stay for an extended period to gain work experience.

• Visa Period: Offers a post-study work visa for:

  • Bachelors or Master's degree: 2 years

  • Master's by research: 3 years

  • Doctoral degree: 4 years

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - Graduate Work Stream:

Available for international students who have completed studies in fields listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

• Duration: Grants a visa period of up to 18 months, allowing graduates to gain work experience in an occupation in demand in Australia.

Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) – Secondary Post-Study Work Stream:

Designed for international students who previously held a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) under the Graduate Work Stream and have since completed a second, higher qualification in Australia.

• Application Criteria: Requires applicants to have completed a higher qualification and previously held a visa under the Graduate Work Stream, with eligibility based on the completion of the second qualification.

• Visa Duration: Offers a visa duration of up to 2 years for secondary post-study work, providing an opportunity for additional work experience.

Tips For International Students Who Want To Stay In Australia After Graduation

• Start researching your options for post-study visas well before completing your studies. Understand the visa requirements, application processes, and necessary documents.

• Opt for a course that aligns with the skills in demand in Australia. This will increase your chances of being eligible for post-study work visas.

• Ensure you complete your studies successfully and adhere to attendance and academic performance requirements.

• Build connections during your studies by attending industry events, career fairs, and workshops that can lead to more job opportunities.

• Whether for jobs or visas, make sure your applications are well-crafted.

• Stay informed about changes in immigration policies and visa regulations. Check the official Australian government website for the latest updates.