Visa options for skilled workers in Australia
Many international students are surprised to learn that studying in regional Australia can significantly boost their chances of obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). This knowledge base resource covers everything you need to know about regional study pathways and how they work within the Australian migration system. Whether you are a prospective student, a recent graduate, or supporting a loved one on their migration journey, this detailed guide explains the benefits, processes, challenges, and recent updates so you can make informed decisions about your Australian future.
Tips for Regional Study to Increase PR Chances in Australia
What is Regional Study for PR and Why is it Important?
Regional study refers to undertaking an eligible qualification at a campus located in "regional Australia"— a geographic term defined by the Department of Home Affairs and includes all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Recent policy focus has made regional migration a cornerstone of the Australian Visa and migration system, aiming to distribute population growth and address specific skills shortages outside the major metropolitan centres.
Why is it Important?
- PR Pool Boost: Studying in a regional area provides tangible migration benefits, including extra points for the Points-tested General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas (subclass 189, 190, and 491).
- Priority Processing: Applicants who have studied regionally are often eligible for faster processing or targeted visa streams.
- Additional Work Rights: Many regional areas offer enhanced post-study work rights for graduates.
How to Choose and Undertake Regional Study
1. Select an Eligible Regional Area:
- All locations outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane currently count as eligible “regional” areas. This includes Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra, Hobart, and all regional/rural areas.
- Check postcode eligibility: Always confirm with the official Department of Home Affairs Designated Regional Areas List to avoid confusion.
2. Find a CRICOS-registered Institution:
- Choose a university or college registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
- Popular choices include universities in Adelaide (UniSA, University of Adelaide), Hobart (UTAS), Perth (Curtin, UWA, Murdoch), Gold Coast (Griffith, Bond), and many TAFEs in regional areas.
3. Pick an Eligible Course:
- Courses must be at least two academic years (92 weeks) in duration.
- Favour disciplines listed on the current skills shortage lists (Engineering, Nursing, IT, Education, Trades, etc.)
4. Apply for Admission and Student Visa (subclass 500):
- Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), apply for your student visa, and ensure your studies will be conducted at the regional campus.
5. Complete Your Studies and Take Advantage of Migration Pathways:
- After graduation, explore available pathways such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) with extended post-study work rights, or state/territory nominated visas that favour regional graduates.
How Regional Study Works Within Australian Migration
General Skilled Migration (GSM) Points:
- Completing two years of study in a regional area awards an extra 5 points towards the skilled visa points test.
- Graduates are also eligible for nomination by regional states/territories, which can provide further points or priority processing under subclass 190 (permanent) or 491 (provisional).
Temporary Graduate Visa (485) – Post Study Work Stream:
- Regional graduates gain up to 1-2 additional years on their 485 visa versus graduates from metropolitan campuses.
- Example: A bachelor graduate from Hobart gets a potential 4 years on 485, compared to 2 years in Sydney.
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA):
- Some regional areas have DAMAs enabling access to a wider range of occupations and sometimes lower English/experience requirements.
Key Benefits and Features
- Extra Points towards PR: As above, 5 additional points is a big bonus in the competitive PR pool.
- Longer Post-Study Work Rights: Provides longer timeframes (up to 4-6 years in selected regional areas) to gain Skilled Employment and meet PR criteria.
- Priority State or Territory Nomination: Many states have tailored migration programs for regional graduates.
- Smaller Communities, Supportive Networks: Ease of networking opportunities and employment in local industry.
- Lower Cost of Living: Generally, housing and daily costs are less in regional Australia.
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Limited course/program choice | Research multiple campuses and TAFEs; consider lesser-known but high-quality institutions |
| Fewer part-time job opportunities | Proactively network, access university careers services, volunteer to build connections |
| Homesickness/isolation | Engage in student societies, community groups, and regional support services |
| Lack of familiarity with PR process | Use migration agents (find via ausvisalibrary.com); attend university PR information sessions |
Costs, Duration, and Application Details
Tuition Fees:
- Regional university tuition ranges from AUD $18,000 to $35,000 per year depending on course and level.
- TAFE/VET options can be from AUD $10,000 to $20,000 per year.
Living Costs:
- Estimated at AUD $18,600+ per year (as per Department of Home Affairs).
Duration:
- Most regional PR-boosting programs require a two-year (92-week) qualification.
State/Territory Nomination Fees:
- Can range from AUD $200 to $800 (may be subsidised/