Australian Visa and Migration Guide

Whether you're planning to study, work or build a future in Australia, understanding your visa options is the first step. Explore our visa guides to help you make informed decisions throughout your journey.

With over 50 years of experience helping international students from around the world achieve their study and migration goals, IDP is here to support you every step of the way.

The right Australian visa depends on your plans, whether you're coming to study, preparing to graduate, starting your career or exploring permanent residence. 

Browse the categories below to find visa guides, eligibility information and resources tailored to your next step.

I want to study in Australia

If you're planning to study a CRICOS-registered course in Australia, you'll generally need a Student visa (subclass 500). 

Before applying, it's important to understand the visa requirements, student visa costs and conditions that apply during your studies.

Know more about the Student visa (subclass 500)

I'm graduating soon

Finishing your studies is an important milestone, but it doesn't have to be the end of your journey in Australia. Depending on your qualifications, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), allowing you to stay in Australia temporarily to gain work experience or plan your next visa pathway.

Know more about the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

I want to work in Australia

Australia offers several work visa options for skilled professionals and graduates. The right visa will depend on factors such as your occupation, qualifications, work experience and whether you have an employer willing to sponsor you.

Know more about Employer-Sponsored visas

I'm planning for permanent residence

If your long-term goal is to live in Australia permanently, there are several migration pathways to consider. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify through the skilled migration program, employer sponsorship or regional pathways. Understanding your options early can  

Explore permanent residency pathways in Australia

I’m looking at other visa options

Not every journey fits into the same pathway. Whether you're visiting Australia, joining your partner or waiting for another visa outcome, explore these guides to understand other common visa options.

Know more about bridging visas

Know more about partner visas

For many international students, studying in Australia is the first step in a longer journey.

Depending on your qualifications, occupation and individual circumstances, you may be able to progress from studying to gaining work experience and eventually explore permanent residence pathways.

A common migration pathway may look like this:

Study in Australia

Complete an eligible course with an Australian education provider while meeting the conditions of your Student visa.

Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

After graduating, you may be eligible to stay in Australia temporarily to gain valuable work experience.

Skilled work

Build your career through an employer-sponsored or skilled work visa if you meet the relevant eligibility requirements.

Permanent residence

Depending on your occupation, work experience, skills assessment and other eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply for permanent residence through a suitable migration pathway.

Important:

This is a general example of a migration pathway. Visa eligibility, application requirements and permanent residence pathways vary based on your individual circumstances and Australian Government migration policies. Studying in Australia does not guarantee eligibility for permanent residence. 

While studying in Australia does not guarantee permanent residence, understanding your options early can help you make informed decisions about your future.

Whether you're planning your first Student visa, preparing to graduate or exploring permanent residence pathways, IDP can help you understand your options and connect you with trusted migration advice when you need it.

Know the answers to some of the common visa and migration questions below. If you need specific information or personalised guidance, don't hesitate to talk to our friendly migration experts.

Which Australian visa do I need?

The right Australian visa depends on your purpose for coming to Australia, such as studying, working, visiting or applying for permanent residence. Explore our visa guides or speak with IDP to understand the options that may suit your circumstances.

Can I work while studying in Australia?

Yes, most Student visa (subclass 500) holders can work while studying, provided they meet the visa conditions and current Australian Government work rights.

What happens after my Student visa?

After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for another visa, such as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), or explore skilled work and permanent residence pathways if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Which visas can lead to permanent residence?

Several visas may provide a pathway to permanent residence, including employer-sponsored and skilled migration visas. Eligibility depends on factors such as your occupation, qualifications, work experience and Australian Government migration requirements.

How long does visa processing take?

Processing times vary depending on the visa type and your individual circumstances. You can check the latest estimated processing times on the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website.

Do I need IELTS for an Australian visa?

Some Australian visas require you to demonstrate English language proficiency, while others do not. If English is required, IELTS is one of the accepted tests for many visa categories.

Can I apply for another visa while in Australia?

In some cases, yes. Whether you can apply for another visa while in Australia depends on your current visa conditions, eligibility and the type of visa you wish to apply for.

Where can I get help with my visa application?

If you need guidance understanding your visa options or preparing your application, IDP can help you explore your options and connect you with trusted migration advice when required.