Hi everyone! I’m turning 22, and I’m seriously considering migrating to Australia.
I’ve been researching possible pathways for months, and I currently have one pathway that I’m seriously considering. However, before I spend money and potentially the next 3–5 years pursuing it, I want to ask people who have actually gone through Australian migration:
Is this realistic, and what am I missing?
My Current Situation
Age: 21, turning 22
Nationality: Filipino
Currently living: Philippines
Relationship status: Single, no partner
Education: BS Information Technology
I’m unsure how competitive my profile would be for Australian skilled migration through IT.
Work experience: Almost 2 years as a Quality Control Specialist
My work is mostly data entry/data processing, so I understand it may not count toward a skilled occupation pathway.
Currently unemployed
English test: No PTE/IELTS yet
Savings: Around PHP 100,000
I also have an aunt and cousin who are Australian PRs living in Melbourne. My aunt is a housewife, while my uncle is an Australian citizen and retired military. They can't financially support me at the moment, but if I eventually make it to Australia, I may potentially be able to stay with them, which would significantly reduce my accommodation expenses.
Option 1: Skilled Trade Pathway
The main pathway I’m currently researching is a specific trade occupation.
My understanding is roughly:
Complete vocational/formal training around 500+ hours (estimated cost: PHP 35,000)
Gain around 3 years of relevant paid work experience
Apply for a TRA skills assessment
The total cost I’m estimating is around PHP 600,000 if I eventually reach that stage, so my plan would be to work and save for it while gaining the required experience.
Take PTE/IELTS and aim for a strong English score
Meet the requirements for an appropriate Australian visa pathway
Eventually work toward permanent residency
The occupation appears on relevant Australian skilled occupation lists, and I’ve also seen it mentioned in shortage/demand information.
I understand that being on an occupation list or being considered “in shortage” does NOT automatically mean I qualify for PR. I’m specifically trying to understand how realistic the entire pathway is not just whether the occupation appears on a list.
From my research, the occupation may potentially be relevant to pathways such as 190, 407, 491, 494, 482 and 186, depending on the exact occupation and visa requirements.
Another Option I’m Considering: Multinational Companies
I’m also wondering whether it would make sense to apply for companies in the Philippines that have offices or operations in Australia.
For example, if I joined a multinational company here and performed well, could an internal transfer to Australia realistically become an option after a few years?
I’m not sure how internal hiring/transfer usually works. I assume it depends on things like:
whether the Australian office actually has vacancies
whether my skills are needed there
company policies
performance and experience
visa sponsorship/eligibility
and, of course, whether management is willing to transfer me
I’m not expecting this to be an easy shortcut or assuming that “working for a multinational = Australia transfer.” I’m just wondering if this is a strategy worth considering alongside skilled migration.
If anyone has actually gotten to Australia through an internal company transfer, I’d really appreciate hearing how it worked and what made you competitive for the transfer.
Other Pathways
I’m also open to a student visa, but I’ve seen a lot of advice saying that studying in Australia shouldn’t be treated simply as a migration strategy unless the course makes sense independently. If I eventually consider studying, I’d prefer to understand the pathway properly and potentially handle the process myself rather than immediately relying on an agency. (If meron kayung suggestion a detailed discussion about this pls share )
My Biggest Concern
I’m honestly thinking twice about whether my current plan is actually a good one or if I need to do more research and consider other pathways before committing several years to it.
I’m not looking for a “quick way to Australia.” I’m willing to spend several years building the right qualifications, work experience, English score, finances, and career profile if that gives me a realistic chance of eventually getting PR.
So if you were in my position at 21/22, with a BSIT degree, limited savings, limited skilled experience, and no partner:
What would you do over the next 3–5 years?
And if you’ve actually gone through Australian skilled migration/TRA/state nomination/employer sponsorship/internal transfer, I’d especially appreciate hearing what you wish you had known before spending money or committing several years to your plan.
I’m trying to make a realistic decision
Any advice, corrections, or things I should research before committing would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!