If you are a student pursuing your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree and seeking a Permanent Residency (PR) pathway in Australia, one of the most important factors to consider is where you study, live, and work. The Australian Government has introduced regional classifications that directly impact your visa options, PR points, and post-study work benefits.
In this guide, we’ll break down the colour-coded categories so you can make the best decision for your future.
🔴 Category 1 – Major Cities
- Examples: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
- Benefits: ❌ No regional benefits
- What it means: If you live, study, or work in these cities, you will not be eligible for additional PR points or post-study work extensions under the regional migration program. While they offer lifestyle advantages, PR competition is tougher here.
🟡 Category 2 – Cities and Major Regional Centres
- Examples: Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Geelong
- Benefits: ✅ Some regional benefits
- What it means:
- Eligible for regional visas such as the 491 (Skilled Work Regional) and 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional).
- Studying or working here gives you extra PR points.
- Eligible graduates may receive 1 more year of post-study work rights.
This makes Category 2 locations a strong balance between lifestyle and PR opportunities.
🟢 Category 3 – Regional Centres and Other Regional Areas
- Examples: Smaller towns and regional communities outside Category 1 & 2 (Regional area Postcodes)
- Benefits: ✅ Full regional benefits
- What it means:
- Highest advantages for skilled migration and PR.
- Eligible for 491 and 494 visas.
- Studying or working here provides extra PR points.
- Eligible graduates may receive two more years of post-study work rights.
Category 3 regions offer the most benefits for international students and skilled workers who want to secure PR.
Regional Visas: 491 & 494
To qualify for these visas, you must live and work in Category 2 or 3 areas.
- 491 Visa (Skilled Work Regional Provisional): Allows skilled workers to live, work, and study in designated regional areas for up to 5 years, with a pathway to PR.
- 494 Visa (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional): For skilled workers sponsored by an employer in regional Australia.
What are the Regional Area Benefits for Your PR Pathway?
- Extra PR Points – Boost your EOI score by studying or working in regional areas.
- Post-Study Work Rights – Up to 3 years in Category 2 and 4 years in Category 3.
- Higher PR Invitation Chances – States often prioritize regional applicants for visas like 491 and 190.
- Affordable Lifestyle – Regional areas often have lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
Final Word: Plan Smart, Choose Regional
Your choice of study or work location in Australia has a direct impact on your PR journey. While major cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer exciting opportunities, regional areas (especially Category 3) give you the strongest PR advantages.
Always double-check eligibility with official Australian Government sources before making decisions.
Source: www.immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/regional-migration
Speak to an Expert at Nepcoms
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