Post-Study Work Permit After Study in Australia: Explained for Indian Students

Australia has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for higher education among Indian students. With globally recognized universities, vibrant multicultural cities, and strong career opportunities, it’s no surprise that thousands of Indian students choose to study in Australia every year.
But what happens after graduation? Can you stay back and work in Australia? The answer is yes—thanks to the Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP) system introduced by the Australian government. This blog will guide you through everything Indian students need to know about the post-study work opportunities available in Australia.
What is a post-study work permit in Australia?

A Post-Study Work Permit allows international students who have completed a degree in Australia to live, work, and gain professional experience after graduation. It is officially known as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
This visa is divided into two streams:
- Post-Study Work Stream—for students who recently graduated from an Australian institution with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
- Graduate Work Stream—for students with skills and qualifications related to occupations on Australia's Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
For Indian students who have studied in a CRICOS-registered institution, the Post-Study Work Stream is the most relevant and widely used. To better understand the eligibility and application process, connecting with experienced study abroad consultants in Trichy can help you navigate each step and maximize your chances of securing this valuable visa.
Duration of Stay Based on Qualification

The length of the post-study work visa depends on your level of education:
- Bachelor’s Degree – 2 years
- Master’s Degree (Coursework) – 2 years
- Master’s Degree (Research) – 3 years
- Doctoral Degree (PhD) – 4 years
Recently, the Australian government announced an additional 2-year extension for graduates in selected fields like IT, engineering, agriculture, and health. This means Indian students in these disciplines could stay up to 4–6 years post-graduation.
To understand how these changes apply to your specific program and career goals, it’s advisable to connect with trusted education consultants. They can provide up-to-date information and assist you in planning your academic path for long-term success in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
To qualify for a post-study work visa in Australia, Indian students must meet the following criteria:

- Must be under 50 years of age
- Hold an eligible Australian student visa (Subclass 500)
- Have completed a CRICOS-registered course
- Meet English language proficiency requirements
- Apply within 6 months of course completion
- Must have stayed in Australia for at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) for the course
- Hold adequate health insurance. (Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC)
Meeting these criteria is crucial. Consulting trusted education consultants can help you avoid visa rejection and ensure proper documentation.
Benefits of the Post-Study Work Permit
A post-study work permit in Australia offers several advantages for Indian students:
1. Gain International Work Experience
You get the opportunity to work in a global environment and gain hands-on experience relevant to your field of study.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many students use this time to accumulate the work experience needed to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through skilled migration pathways.
3. Build Your Professional Network
Working in Australia allows you to connect with professionals, companies, and industries that can open long-term career opportunities.
4. Explore Regional Areas
If you study in regional cities like Adelaide, Perth, or Hobart, you may be eligible for extended work rights, making these cities attractive for Indian students.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) application process:
- Complete Your Course—Ensure your course is CRICOS-approved and meets the two-year requirement.
- Gather Documents—This includes your passport, health insurance, English proficiency proof, transcript, completion letter, and more.
- Apply for the Visa—Submit your application online via the Australian Immigration Portal.
- Biometrics and Health Check—You may be asked to undergo a medical examination and submit biometrics.
- Visa Grant—Once approved, you’ll receive your visa, allowing you to work full-time in Australia.
To avoid mistakes and delays, it’s best to get help from experienced study abroad consultants in Trichy.
Costs Involved
The current application fee for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is around AUD 1,895. Additional costs may include medical examinations, police clearance certificates, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). If you're planning to study in Australia and stay back to gain work experience, it’s important to budget for these expenses in advance. Proper financial planning, along with guidance from expert consultants, can make your transition from student to professional much smoother.
Expert Help from Study Abroad Consultants in Trichy
Navigating post-study work permits can be complex, especially for first-time applicants. This is where professional certified education consultants come in.
They offer:
- Visa and documentation assistance
- Personalized guidance based on your course and career goals
- Updates on the latest immigration policies
- PR and work visa counseling
Their support can increase your chances of visa approval and help you make informed career decisions in Australia.
Conclusion
Australia not only offers a world-class education but also provides a strong platform to launch your international career. With the Post-Study Work Permit, Indian students can stay back, work, and build a future in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
If you are planning to study in Australia, ensure you understand the post-study work opportunities and take the right steps during and after your education journey.
For expert guidance, connect with trusted study abroad consultants in Trichy who can support your dream every step of the way.
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