For many international students, finishing their studies in Australia marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Whether it’s building a career, starting a business, or simply continuing life in a country you’ve come to love, one key question arises: Can you switch to another visa once your student visa ends?

At Morgan Clifford Migration Lawyers Toowong, we regularly advise students on the options available at the conclusion of their studies.

The short answer is yes—you can often apply for another visa at the end of your student visa.

However, the specific pathways, eligibility criteria, and long-term implications require careful planning.

Understanding Visa Conditions

Student visas in Australia come with strict conditions. You must remain enrolled in a registered course, meet attendance requirements, and maintain health insurance.

Once your course ends, your visa will also end shortly afterwards.

If you want to stay in Australia beyond that time, you should lodge a new visa application before your student visa expires.

Migration Lawyers Toowong can guide you through this critical step, as overstaying even by a short period may limit your future visa options.

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

One of the most common pathways after completing studies is the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). This visa allows recent graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily.

There are two main streams:

1. Graduate Work Stream: for international students who have completed qualifications linked to specific occupations on the skilled occupation list.
2. Post-Study Work Stream: for students who completed higher education degrees (such as a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) in Australia.

This visa is attractive because it provides valuable time to gain work experience in Australia. With the right planning, it can also be a stepping stone towards skilled migration.

Having experienced migration lawyers Toowong review your study history and future plans can ensure you maximise the benefits of this option.

Skilled Migration Pathways

Some students may be eligible to apply directly for skilled visas, such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491).

Eligibility usually depends on factors such as:

• Your nominated occupation being on the relevant skilled occupation list.
• Having a positive skills assessment.
• Meeting the minimum points test score.
• Demonstrating sufficient English language proficiency.
• Receiving a state or territory nomination (for subclass 190 or 491).

Because skilled migration is highly competitive, professional advice can make a significant difference. By engaging migration lawyers Toowong, you can assess whether your qualifications, work history, and English skills align with Australia’s migration needs.

Employer-Sponsored Options

If you’ve impressed an employer during your studies or post-study work, sponsorship may be a pathway to remain in Australia. Employer-sponsored visas include:

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)
• Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)

These visas generally require that your employer is approved to sponsor overseas workers and that the role is in demand.

Securing employer sponsorship can provide stability and, in some cases, a direct pathway to permanent residency.

A migration lawyer can help ensure both you and your employer meet the eligibility criteria, and that your application is as strong as possible.

Other Possible Visas

While graduate and skilled visas are the most common, some students may transition to other visa categories depending on their circumstances. These include:

• Partner Visas: if you are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• Business or Investor Visas: if you have significant assets and business experience.
• Further Student Visa: if you wish to continue studying another course in Australia.

Each option comes with its own rules, timelines, and documentation requirements. Choosing the wrong visa, or failing to meet conditions, could jeopardise your ability to stay in Australia.

Timing and Application Strategy

One of the most important considerations is timing. You must apply for your new visa before your current student visa expires. Applying too late may leave you on a bridging visa with limited rights.

Planning ahead also gives you the chance to prepare for English tests, skills assessments, or gathering the extensive documentation often required. Consulting with migration lawyers Toowong well before your course ends ensures you won’t be caught off guard.

The Value of Professional Guidance

Australia’s migration system is complex and constantly changing. Visa subclasses may be altered, occupation lists updated, and processing times can vary widely. What worked for one student last year may not be available today.

At Morgan Clifford, we believe in providing clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances. Our team of dedicated Migration Lawyers Toowong can help you identify the right visa, gather the strongest supporting evidence, and ensure your application is lodged on time.

Switching from a Student Visa to Another Visa in Australia

Yes, it is absolutely possible to switch to another visa after completing your studies in Australia.

The right option for you will depend on your qualifications, work experience, relationships, and long-term goals.

From graduate visas to skilled migration or employer sponsorship, there are many pathways to consider.

At Morgan Clifford Migration Lawyers Toowong, we’re here to help students make a smooth transition from study to the next stage of their Australian journey.

By seeking professional advice early, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success and peace of mind knowing you’ve made the right move.

Get in touch today to start planning your next step.