The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is designed for international students wishing to study in Australia. This visa allows eligible students to pursue their studies in a registered course at an Australian institution, experience life in Australia, and even work part-time during their study period. Below, you’ll find essential details on the benefits, requirements, and application process for the Subclass 500 visa.
Key Highlights
- Duration: Up to 5 years, aligned with your enrolment duration.
- Cost: From AUD 1,600, with exemptions available for eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens.
- Processing Time: Varies based on priority categories. Check the visa processing time guide for the latest timelines.
Benefits of the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
With this visa, you can:
- Participate in an eligible course of study in Australia.
- Travel in and out of Australia as often as you like during the visa validity.
- Work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. (Students studying a master’s by research or a doctoral degree, as well as their families, have no work limit.)
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must:
- Be enrolled in an Australian course: You need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a registered educational institution.
- Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): This is mandatory, except for those in specific exemption categories.
- Be of appropriate age for school students: If under 18, you must meet age-specific requirements for each school year level.
- Show proof of financial capacity: Demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay and study expenses.
- Satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement: You must genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.
- Meet health and character requirements: A medical assessment and character checks are required.
- Respect Australian values: If you are 18 years or older, you must agree to respect the Australian lifestyle and abide by its laws.
Financial Requirements
You must show you have enough money to cover:
- Tuition fees.
- Living expenses for you and any family members included in your application.
- School fees for any dependents who may join you in Australia. Note that costs may vary by region, and it’s recommended to research living expenses for your intended area in Australia.
Family Inclusion
You can include certain family members in your initial visa application, or they can apply later as subsequent entrants. Eligible family members include:
- Your partner.
- Your dependent children under 18 years of age. All family members must meet the health and character requirements to be included on the visa.
Work Rights
- Primary Student: You may work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session.
- Family Members: Dependents may also work while in Australia but are subject to specific conditions.
- Research Students: For those enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program, there is no work limit.
Application Process
- Prepare Your Documents: Include your CoE, OSHC proof, financial evidence, and health and character documentation.
- Apply Online: Submit your application either inside or outside Australia. Ensure all information is complete and accurate to avoid delays.
- Await Processing: Applications are processed according to Ministerial Direction No. 107, with priority given to higher-priority cases. Processing times vary, so it’s recommended to apply well before your course start date.
- Track Application: Regularly check for updates and respond to any additional requests for information from the Department of Home Affairs.
Travel and Stay
- Travel Flexibility: You can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you wish during the validity of your visa.
- Stay Duration: The visa allows for study durations up to five years, depending on the course length. For primary school enrolments, maximum stay is typically three years.
- Extensions: If your visa expires before your graduation, you may be eligible for a Visitor Visa (subclass 600) with a letter from your institution. Graduates may also apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
Additional Support
If you need assistance with your application, ensure you seek help from an authorised immigration agent or representative. They can provide guidance on preparing your application and meeting all visa requirements.
How Widen Migration Experts Can Help You with the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is designed for international students who wish to pursue a course of study in Australia. This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, providing you with opportunities to explore the country while gaining valuable education. Widen Migration Experts can assist you with every aspect of your application, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements and submit a complete application.
- Eligibility Assessment: We assess your qualifications and ensure you meet the criteria, including enrolment in an Australian education institution and financial requirements.
- Visa Application Support: Our team assists you with your visa application, making sure all details are correct and complete to avoid delays.
- Documentation Assistance: We help you collect all necessary documents, such as your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), proof of financial capacity, and English language proficiency.
- Visa Conditions Guidance: We provide clear explanations of visa conditions such as work rights, course enrolment requirements, and the need for health insurance.
- Timely Application Submission: We ensure your application is submitted on time and follow up with the Department of Home Affairs to track your application status.