Australia’s permanent residency pathway is one of the main reasons Nepali students choose it over other destinations. Unlike Canada’s complex Express Entry or the UK’s high salary thresholds, Australia’s skilled migration system is transparent and points-based — and studying in Australia gives you a head start on the points test. This guide explains the four key visas Nepali graduates use to transition from a student visa to permanent residency.
Step 1 — Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The first step after graduation is the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to live and work in Australia full-time. Duration depends on your qualification level and where you studied:
| Qualification | Study Location | 485 Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | Major city (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth) | 2 years |
| Master’s degree (coursework) | Major city | 3 years |
| Master’s (research) or PhD | Any location | 4 years |
| Any degree level | Regional Australia | +1 extra year |
The 485 visa gives you full work rights with no hour restrictions — unlike your student visa’s 48-hour fortnight cap. This is your opportunity to gain Australian work experience, improve your English, and accumulate points toward a permanent visa.
Step 2 — The Points Test
Australia’s skilled migration program uses a points-based system. You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible to apply, but in practice, invitations in competitive occupations require 80–90+ points. Points are awarded for:
- Age: Maximum 30 points (ages 25–32 receive the full 30)
- English proficiency: Up to 20 points (Competent = 0, Proficient = 10, Superior = 20)
- Skilled employment experience: Up to 20 points (Australian work experience earns more than overseas)
- Educational qualifications: Up to 20 points (doctorate = 20, master’s = 15, bachelor’s = 15)
- Australian study requirement: 5 points (2+ years of study in Australia satisfies this)
- Regional study/work: Up to 10 bonus points
- Partner skills/English: Up to 10 points
Step 3 — Choose the Right Skilled Migration Visa
Once you have the points and work experience, there are three main PR visa pathways:
Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent
No state sponsorship needed. You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, and if your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and your points are competitive, you receive an invitation to apply. Processing time: 8–14 months. This is the most sought-after pathway because it’s not tied to a specific state.
Subclass 190 — State Nominated
Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. Provides an extra 5 points on your EOI. State requirements vary — some states prioritise regional occupations (healthcare, engineering, teaching), others have their own occupation lists. Nomination adds complexity but can be advantageous for applicants with strong state ties.
Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
A provisional visa (5 years) requiring regional living and working. After 3 years on the 491, you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa. Provides an extra 15 points on your EOI and has lower competition than 189/190. Excellent option for graduates willing to settle outside the major cities.
Occupations in Demand for Nepali Graduates
Australia’s skilled migration program is occupation-specific. The following fields have consistent high demand and are popular among Nepali graduates:
- Software engineering / IT (especially cloud, cybersecurity, data science)
- Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering
- Accounting and financial analysis (CPA pathway beneficial)
- Nursing and allied health professions
- Teaching (particularly STEM subjects and early childhood)
- Aged care and disability support (high demand, regional bonus)
Timeline: Student Visa to PR
A realistic timeline for a Nepali student completing a 2-year master’s program and then pursuing PR:
- Year 1–2: Complete master’s degree in Australia
- Year 2: Apply for Subclass 485 (3-year graduate visa)
- Year 2–4: Work full-time in skilled occupation, build points and experience
- Year 4–5: Submit EOI, receive invitation, apply for Subclass 189/190
- Year 5–6: PR granted — total timeline approximately 5–6 years from arriving in Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need for Australian PR?
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but competitive invitations for popular occupations typically require 80–90+ points. Points are calculated based on age, English, work experience, qualifications, and other factors.
Does studying in a regional area of Australia help with PR?
Yes significantly. Studying at a regional institution (outside major cities) gives you an extra year on the Subclass 485 graduate visa AND up to 15 bonus points on your EOI. Regional study in Australia is an underused but highly effective PR strategy.
Do I need an occupation on the skills list for Australian PR?
Yes. Your occupation must appear on one of Australia’s occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL) and you must have your skills formally assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineers, VETASSESS for business roles).
Get Expert Guidance from EVEC
EVEC has helped thousands of Nepali students successfully study abroad since 2005. Our AIRC-certified counsellors provide personalised guidance at every step — from choosing the right university to visa lodgement. Book your free consultation today.
- Skilled migration (official) (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
- Skilled Occupation List (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need for Australian PR?
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but competitive invitations for popular occupations typically require 80–90+ points. Points are calculated based on age, English, work experience, qualifications, and other factors.
Does studying in a regional area of Australia help with PR?
Yes significantly. Studying at a regional institution (outside major cities) gives you an extra year on the Subclass 485 graduate visa AND up to 15 bonus points on your EOI. Regional study in Australia is an underused but highly effective PR strategy.
Do I need an occupation on the skills list for Australian PR?
Yes. Your occupation must appear on one of Australia's occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, or ROL) and you must have your skills formally assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority (e.g., Engineers Australia for engineers, VETASSESS for business roles).
Get Expert Guidance from EVEC
EVEC has helped thousands of Nepali students successfully study abroad since 2005. Our AIRC-certified counsellors provide personalised guidance at every step — from choosing the right university to visa lodgement. Book your free consultation today.