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Is it possible to obtain permanent residence in Australia after an exchange?

written by
Natasha Machado
14/8/2025
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5 min
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The key lies in understanding the available routes, the necessary requirements, and how to make the most of your initial experience in the country. With proper planning and the right strategies, your exchange can be the first step to a new life in the country of kangaroos.

How does the Australian immigration system work

The Australian immigration system is based on a point model that assesses different criteria such as age, qualifications, professional experience, level of English, and other factors. The Australian government seeks to attract qualified professionals who can contribute to the local economy, especially in areas with labor shortages.

For Brazilians, there are several routes to permanent residence, many of which can still be started during the exchange. The period of study in the country not only allows you to develop your language and professional skills, but also offers the opportunity to build the necessary foundations for a future permanent visa application.

Main permanent visa categories:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): For qualified professionals who do not need sponsorship
  • Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): For candidates nominated by a state or territory
  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187): For workers in regional areas
  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482): Temporary path that may lead to permanence

The fundamental role of the Post Study Work Visa

One of the most effective ways for exchange students is Post Study Work Visa (subclass 485), which allows graduates from Australian institutions to remain in the country to work for a specified period. This visa is crucial because it offers the opportunity to gain Australian professional experience, which is highly valued in the points system.

Length of the Post Study Work Visa:

  • 2 years for graduation (Bachelor)
  • 3 years for master (Master)
  • 4 years for doctorate (PhD)

During this time, you can work full time, gain local experience, and accumulate points needed to apply for permanent residence. It is important to highlight that study in one of the best Australian cities can open doors to specific job and networking opportunities that facilitate the immigration process.

Strategies to maximize your chances during the exchange

1. Choice of course and institution

Course choice is critical to your immigration prospects. Courses in areas on the Skilled Occupation List offer better chances of success. Areas such as information technology, engineering, health, and education are constantly in high demand.

In addition, adapt culturally to the Australian environment From the beginning of the exchange, it demonstrates its commitment to the country and facilitates integration into the local labor market.

2. Development of English

The level of English is a crucial factor in the point system. Achieving high scores on tests like IELTS or PTE can mean valuable extra points. During your exchange, invest heavily in language development not only for your studies, but thinking about your future visa application.

3. Local professional experience

Working during the exchange (while respecting the student visa limits) and especially during the Post Study Work Visa is essential. Australian professional experience not only adds points but also demonstrates your ability to integrate into the local labor market.

As highlighted in the article about The best cities to work in Australia, different cities offer specific opportunities in various sectors, allowing you to choose the ideal location to develop your career.

Specific routes for post-exchange permanent residence

Via Employer Sponsorship

One of the most direct routes is to get sponsorship from an Australian employer. During your Post Study Work Visa, you can establish professional relationships that may result in an offer of sponsorship. Australian companies often sponsor qualified international employees when it is difficult to find local professionals.

Via State Nomination

Each Australian state and territory has its own lists of priority occupations and can nominate qualified candidates. Studying and working in a specific state can increase your chances of receiving a state referral, which adds valuable points to your application.

Via Regional Migration

Australia's regional areas offer easy paths to permanent residence, with lower scoring requirements and specific incentives. Considering studying or working in regional cities can be a smart strategy to accelerate your immigration process.

Financial and documentary preparation

The application process for permanent residence involves significant costs and extensive documentation. It is important to start preparing from the start of the exchange:

Typical costs:

  • Application fee: AUD $4,640 - $4,875 (depending on visa)
  • Qualifications assessment: AUD $500 - $1,500
  • Medical exams: AUD $300 - $500
  • English tests: AUD $350 - $400
  • Migration advice: AUD $3,000 - $8,000

Factors that may impact your chances

Changes in immigration policies

Australian immigration policies are dynamic and can change based on the country's economic needs. Staying up to date on changes and adjusting your strategy accordingly is crucial.

Age and timing

The points system favors younger candidates, with maximum scores for ages 25-32. Planning your application within this ideal age range can make a significant difference.

Qualifications and experience

Qualifications recognized in Australia and relevant professional experience are fundamental. During your exchange, consider supplementing your training with local certifications or additional courses that increase your employability.

The crucial role of planning ahead

Obtaining permanent residence in Australia after the exchange is not an overnight process. It requires strategic planning that must begin before you even embark to the country. As observed by exchange students who experience the peculiarities of Australian life, understanding the country's cultural and economic nuances from the start greatly facilitates the integration process and, consequently, immigration.

Typical schedule for permanent residence:

  • Year 1-2: Undergraduate or graduate course
  • Year 3-4: Post Study Work Visa and professional experience
  • Year 4-5: Application for permanent residence
  • Year 5-6: Processing and decision

Be Easy: your partner on the journey to Australia

Achieving permanent residence in Australia after the exchange is absolutely possible, but it requires strategy, planning, and expert guidance. Na Be Easy, we understand that each dream is unique and we offer customized programs for studying and working in Australia that could be the first step to your new life in the country of kangaroos. Our experienced team accompanies you from initial planning to achieving your objectives, ensuring that you have all the necessary tools to transform your exchange into a successful journey towards Australian permanent residence.

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy