Working while you study
- Most student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and without a limit during scheduled breaks.
- Work must follow the visa conditions. Breaking them can lead to visa cancellation.
- Know your pay rights. The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes the minimum wage and the rules for casual work.
After graduation
Graduates of eligible courses can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), the post-study work visa. Length depends on the level of the qualification and where you studied, and there are age and English conditions. Studying in a designated regional area can add extra time.
Permanent residence
PR is not automatic and is never guaranteed by a course. The common routes are skilled migration (points-based), employer sponsorship and state or territory nomination. Each needs a skills assessment for the occupation, enough points, strong English and often relevant work experience. The occupation lists and points are changed by the government regularly, so choosing a course only for PR is risky.
A sensible way to plan
- Pick a course you want to work in, with employers hiring for it.
- Build local work experience and references while you study.
- Keep your English score high, because it affects points.
Check before you rely on it. Work-hour limits, graduate visa conditions and the skilled occupation lists change often. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on the Home Affairs Temporary Graduate visa page or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.
Talk to WIEC about Australia
Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.
Last updated 29 Oct 2026