If your Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is running out, you might be feeling the pressure to find the next best option to stay in Australia. Fortunately, several visa pathways are available depending on your skills, employment prospects, and long-term migration goals. In this blog, we explore your potential options, including employer-sponsored visas (407, 482, and 186) and skilled migration visas (189, 190, and 491), to help you make an informed decision.
Employer-Sponsored Visa Options
Training Visa (Subclass 407)
The 407 visa allows applicants to undertake workplace-based training to improve their skills in their nominated occupation.
Pros:
- Provides valuable Australian work experience.
- Relatively easier requirements compared to other employer-sponsored visas.
- Can act as a stepping stone to permanent visas.
Cons:
- Temporary in nature (valid for up to 2 years).
- Requires a sponsor willing to provide structured training.
- No direct pathway to permanent residency.
Skills In Demand (Subclass 482 – SID Visa)
This employer-sponsored visa allows skilled workers to stay in Australia and work in their nominated occupation for up to 4 years.
Pros:
- Can lead to permanent residency (if eligible for the 186 TRT visa under the Employer Nomination Scheme).
- No points-based assessment is needed. Skill assessment is exempted in most of the occupations
- Lower English requirements
Cons:
- Requires employer sponsorship.
- Occupation must be on the Core Skill Occupation List (CSOL)
- Limited flexibility in changing jobs/employers.
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186 – ENS Visa)
This is a permanent visa option for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer.
Pros:
- Offers direct permanent residency.
- No points test requirement.
- Work and Stay Permanently – No need for renewals or visa restrictions
Cons:
- Requires a nominating employer.
- Applicants must have at least three years of skilled work experience in the nominated occupation.
- Lengthy processing times.
Skilled Migration Visa Options
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
A points-tested visa for skilled workers who do not require employer sponsorship.
Pros:
- Offers permanent residency with full work and study rights.
- No requirement for state/territory nomination.
- No employer sponsorship is needed.
Cons:
- Highly competitive with high points cut-offs.
- Processing times can be long.
- Limited to occupations on the MLTSSL.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
A state-sponsored visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory.
Pros:
- Permanent residency pathway.
- Each state has its priority occupations. State-focused sponsorship helps get a competitive edge
- More occupation options are available as both MLTSSL and STSOL occupations are available.
Cons:
- Must commit to living in the sponsoring state for a certain period.
- Processing times can be long.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
A points-tested visa requiring nomination by a state/territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative in a designated regional area.
Pros:
- Allows you to live, work, and study in regional Australia.
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency through the 191 visa after three years.
- More flexible eligibility criteria compared to 189/190 visas.
Cons:
- Requires commitment to living in a regional area for at least three years.
- Temporary visa (but with PR pathway).
Choosing the Best Option for You
The best visa option depends on your individual circumstances, such as your occupation, points score, employer sponsorship availability, and long-term residency goals. Here’s how to navigate this decision successfully:
- Assess Your Points Score – If you qualify for a skilled visa (189, 190, or 491), check if your points are competitive.
- Consider Employer Sponsorship – If you have an employer willing to sponsor you, explore 407, 482, or 186 visas.
- Check State Nomination Lists – States frequently update their occupation lists, making 190 and 491 visas good alternatives.
- Plan for PR from the Start – If PR is your goal, choose a visa with a clear pathway, such as 482 to 186 or 491 to 191.
- Consult an Immigration Lawyer – Visa requirements and policies frequently change. Seeking professional advice can help you avoid costly mistakes and find the best pathway forward.
How Aurelia Legal Can Help
At Aurelia Legal, we specialize in Australian immigration law and can provide tailored advice based on your unique circumstances. Our expert team can assist with:
- Assessing your eligibility for different visa options.
- Preparing and submitting strong visa applications.
- Navigating employer sponsorship and state nomination requirements.
- Developing long-term migration strategies for permanent residency.
- Handling complex cases and visa refusals.
Our team is committed to helping you achieve your migration goals with ease and confidence. If your 485 visa is expiring soon, don’t wait—contact Aurelia Legal today for a consultation and secure your future in Australia!
Conclusion
Running out of time on your 485 visas doesn’t mean your Australian journey has to end. Whether you pursue employer sponsorship, a skilled migration visa, or a regional pathway, each option has its own benefits and challenges. The key is to act early, gather the right documentation, and explore multiple visa pathways to maximize your chances of staying in Australia.
If you need tailored advice on your visa options, contact our experienced immigration lawyers today!
Contact us at +61 3 9125 8820 or info@aurelialegal.com.au
DISCLAIMER: This blog is for general information only. Legislation may change from time to time. Please refer to the latest legislation for current details.