If you’re an international graduate or skilled professional in Australia looking to secure Permanent Residency (PR), navigating the complex visa landscape can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—at Xpert De Visa, we break it down clearly.
This article explores two of the most effective and realistic pathways to PR in 2025–26. Whether you’re on a 485 Graduate Visa, Student Visa, or holding skilled work experience, these pathways can lead you to your Australian PR dream.
🔹 1. State Nomination (Subclass 190/491) – Fast-Track PR via Regional Opportunities
💼 What is it?
The Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa) are point-tested PR pathways where Australian states or territories nominate you based on your skills, experience, and occupation demand.
📍 Why It Works (Especially for Graduates):
- State Priorities Change Frequently: You may be eligible even if not on the federal Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Regional Advantage: Completing studies or working in regional areas (e.g., Adelaide, Hobart, Ballarat, Toowoomba) gives you a higher chance of nomination.
- Extra PR Points:
- 15 points: if nominated for Subclass 491
- 5 points: for Subclass 190 nomination
- 5–10 points: for completing study in regional Australia
- Bonus: partner skills, English score, and professional year programs can boost your score further.
📌 Example Profile (Subclass 190)
- Age: 29
- Graduate of Master’s in IT (Sydney)
- PTE 79+, 3 years post-study work in Adelaide
- Nominated by South Australia as a Cyber Security Analyst
✅ Outcome: Permanent Residency under Subclass 190
👣 Steps to Apply
- Skill Assessment via relevant body (e.g., ACS, Engineers Australia)
- Submit EOI (Expression of Interest) on SkillSelect
- Apply for State Nomination
- If invited: Apply for PR (190) or provisional visa (491)
- 491 can transition to PR via Subclass 191 after 3 years
🔹 2. Employer Sponsored Pathway (Subclass 482 → 186)
🏢 What is it?
This pathway begins with the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) and leads to Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)—a direct PR route after gaining relevant Australian work experience.
✅ Why It Works in 2025
- Australia’s workforce shortage in healthcare, trades, IT, and engineering is intensifying.
- Employers are sponsoring skilled staff for longer-term retention.
- You only need 2 years of work in your nominated occupation (under Medium-Term Stream) before you can be nominated for PR under Subclass 186.
👷 Popular PR Occupations in 2025:
| Sector | Occupations |
|---|---|
| Health | Registered Nurse, Aged Care Worker, Physiotherapist |
| Tech | Software Developer, ICT Security Specialist |
| Trades | Electrician, Welder, Chef |
| Engineering | Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer |
🎯 Bonus: Combining Both for Best Results
Graduates can start with a regional job (for 190/491) and then switch to Employer Sponsorship (482 → 186) if nominated.
This dual approach gives you flexibility in case one pathway becomes restricted or slower.
NOTE:
It is for informational and educational purposes only contact us for latest updates and consultancy services.
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