1. Try the Training Visa (407)
If you want to stay a bit longer and keep learning on the job, the Training Visa 407 is worth checking out.
This visa lets you do workplace-based training in the field you’ve been studying. You just need to have studied or worked in that field for at least 12 months in the past 2 years.
Say you finished a Carpentry course. That study time already counts, so you’re fine. You’ll just need an employer who’s happy to nominate you and offer about 30 hours a week.
It’s usually cheaper and easier than an employer-sponsored visa and it helps you gain real industry experience while you’re still here.
2. Look Into Partner Options
If you’re in a relationship, your partner’s visa might help you too.
You could apply for a Partner Visa if they’re an Aussie citizen or permanent resident. But even if they’re on another visa (a Student, 482, or Skilled Migration visa) you might still be added as a de facto partner.
One of our students actually met her partner during her course. After they gathered enough proof of their relationship, she was added to his Student Visa and instantly got full work rights.
It’s a great reminder that sometimes your personal life can shape your migration story in the best way.
3. General Skilled Migration
If you already have a skills assessment or previous work experience, you could skip straight to General Skilled Migration — things like the 189, 190, or 491 visa.
It’s a more technical route and timing can be tight, but if your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List, you might already be halfway there.
4. Study Again (Strategically)
Another option? Keep studying. But choose a course that builds on what you’ve done.
Finished a Certificate III in Carpentry? You could move on to a Certificate IV in Building and Construction or a Diploma. It’s not just about staying longer; it’s about improving your chances when you do apply for another visa later.
The trick is picking a course that lines up with your long-term goal, not just any course for the sake of it. That’s where we at Pathway to Aus can step in to help you map things out.
Thinking about studying in Australia?
Explore hundreds of amazing courses from our partner schools and chat with a Pathway to Aus education agent for free guidance on where to start!
🎓✨Explore courses here.
5. Working Holiday or Work and Holiday Visa
Depending on your age and nationality, you might also get a Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa.
These visas let you live, travel, and work around Australia for up to a year (sometimes more if you do regional work). It’s a good breather — a chance to earn, explore, and figure out your next step without rushing into another big visa decision.
6. Take Stock and Plan Properly
Getting knocked back from the 485 can feel unfair, but it’s not the end of the road. Most people just need to re-plan.
Here at Pathway to Aus, our team combines education and migration advice in one place. We’ll sit down with you, look at your background, and help design a path that actually makes sense — whether that means another visa, more study, or a long-term PR strategy.
Contact us to discuss your visa options specific to your situation.
