Student Visas

A Student Visa allows individuals to live in Australia while undertaking a recognised course of study at an approved educational institution.

Whether you are interested in higher education, vocational training, or English language study, there are visa options designed to support your learning goals. Each visa has specific eligibility requirements, including enrolment, financial capacity, and health insurance obligations. Understanding the basic framework of these visas can help you prepare your application and ensure you meet the necessary conditions. Here’s some general information to help you get started.

Visa Options (Overview)

Visa Type Who It's For / Purpose Key Features
Subclass 500 - Student Visa Primary visa for international students enrolling in full-time courses (for example, higher education, VET, English language, and postgraduate research). Allows you to stay for the duration of your course (up to 5 years). Work rights (usually up to 48 hours per fortnight while class is in session). Can include family members. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) required.
Subclass 485 - Temporary Graduate Visa For students who have completed a degree or certain qualifications in Australia and want to live and work temporarily after graduation. Full work rights (18 months - 4+ y ears, depending on qualifications); two streams (Graduate Work / Post-Study Work). OSHC required.
Subclass 590 - Student Guardian Visa For parents or guardians of international students udner 18 (or over 18 in some special circumstances) to accompany them in Australia. Provides permission to stay in Australia while the student is enrolled; responsibilities include welfare of the student. Note: there are usually strictions such as no work rights with limited study permitted. Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while on a Student Visa (subclass 500)?

Yea, up to 48 hours per fortnight during study (when class is in session), and unlimited during scheduled breaks.

Can I include my family on a Student Visa?

Certain visas allow dependent family members. Guardians (590) are separate visas. 

Can a Student or Graduate Visa lead to permanent residency?

Whislt the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa can provide a pathway to permaent residency through skilled migration programs, holders of a Student Visa (subclass 500) must satisfy the Genuine Temporary (GTE) requirement, which means the visa is primarily intended for temporary study. Transitioning to permanent residency typically involves meeting the criteria of a skilled or other eligible visa after completing your studies. 

Do I need to meet English language requirements?

Yes. Most student-related visas require applicants to demonstrate English proficiency. This is often satisfied when enrolling in an Australian institution and obtaining a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), but some visas may require additional evidence depending on the course, level of study, or visa subclass.

Can I travel while on a Student or Graduate Visa?

Travel is allowed, but you must comply with your visa conditions. 

I have more questions.

Please feel free to fill in the form below and we will be in touch. 

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general purposes only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not, and is not intended to be, legal or immigration advice, and it does not create a solicitor–client relationship with Tern Legal. The information should be treated as a practical guide only. No person should act on the basis of the material on this website without obtaining advice specific to their circumstances and, where necessary, seeking professional assistance.

Migration law in Australia is subject to ongoing changes in legislation and government policy, and the information provided may not reflect the most up-to-date position. You are encouraged to make your own enquiries as to the accuracy of the information at the time of use. For advice relevant to your situation, please consult a qualified professional. Tern Legal makes no guarantees regarding the outcome or approval of any migration application.

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