Queensland Graduate Pathway to PR

Queensland is one of the most popular study destinations for international students. It offers world-class universities, a vibrant lifestyle, and lucrative career opportunities. For students who dream of staying in Australia after their studies, the Queensland Graduate Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) is no less than a golden opportunity.

This pathway allows international graduates to apply for Queensland state nomination under the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491). It further provides clear routes to PR.

In this blog, we’ll cover the key requirements, eligibility criteria, and benefits of the Graduate Pathway. It will assist you in understanding if this is the right option for you.

What is the Queensland Graduate Pathway?

The Graduate Pathway is specifically designed for international students who have completed higher education in Queensland. Unlike other state nomination streams, this pathway is tailored to reward students who studied locally and contribute to the state’s workforce needs.

The best part about this pathway is that there are no priority study areas. As long as your occupation is on the Queensland Onshore Skills List, you may be eligible.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to qualify for the Queensland Graduate Pathway, you need to meet the following requirements:-

• Occupation: It must be on the Queensland Onshore Skills List.

• Points: At least 65 points in the skilled migration points test.

• English Language: Competent English or higher.

• Work Experience in Queensland:

• At least 6 months (for 491 applicants)

• At least 9 months (for 190 applicants)

• The work must be:

• After graduation

• Closely related to your nominated occupation

• A minimum of 20 hours per week

Study Requirements

Your studies must meet the following conditions to be eligible:

• Completion of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD from a recognized Queensland university.

• 100% of your study must be completed in Queensland.

• Graduation date must be after 1 July 2021.

These requirements ensure that only genuine Queensland graduates benefit from the state nomination program.

190 vs 491 Graduate Pathway

International graduates can apply for either the 190 or 491 visa depending on their circumstances:

• 190 Skilled Nominated Visa: It provides direct permanent residency with full work and study rights. It requires longer work experience (9 months).

• 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa: It offers a provisional visa valid for 5 years, requiring regional work and residence. It provides a pathway to PR via the subclass 191 visa. It requires shorter work experience (6 months).

Both options provide excellent opportunities, but your choice will depend on your work experience, occupation, and long-term goals.

Benefits of the Graduate Pathway

The Queensland Graduate Pathway is one of the most attractive options for international students. It offers:-

• Direct route to PR through the 190 visa or a provisional pathway through the 491.

• No restricted study areas which makes it open to a wide range of occupations.

• Flexibility for students across different fields, from engineering to healthcare and IT.

Regional opportunities, particularly through the 491 visa, where demand for skilled workers is strong.

Wrapping Up

For international students dreaming of building a future in Australia, the Queensland Graduate Pathway to PR is an excellent opportunity. With clear eligibility requirements and multiple visa options, this pathway provides flexibility and strong prospects for long-term settlement. 

Whether you choose the direct PR route via the 190 visa or the regional pathway via the 491 visa, careful planning and timely application are essential to your success.

Ready to turn your Queensland education into a permanent future in Australia? 

At Visa Empire, our professional visa agents specialize in guiding international students through the PR process. Being the best migration agents in Perth, we provide tailored advice to help you secure the right visa and achieve your migration goals. 
Contact us today and take the first step towards your Australian dream.