Australia Student Visa Application Process

The Australian Student Visa (subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time in Australia. This visa covers various education sectors, including schools, vocational education and training (VET), higher education, and postgraduate research.

To successfully obtain this visa, careful preparation and adherence to the Department of Home Affairs requirements are essential. The application process primarily takes place online.

For the most current information, always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website.

Before applying, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents ready:

• Enrollment: You must be enrolled in a course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): You must satisfy the GTE requirement, demonstrating that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study.
• English Language Proficiency: Provide evidence of your English language skills (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores).
• Financial Capacity: Show proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses.
• Health and Character: Meet health requirements (may require a medical examination) and character requirements (e.g., police certificates).
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You must have valid OSHC for the duration of your stay.

A detailed checklist of required documents will be provided by your education provider or can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Most student visa applications are submitted online through an ImmiAccount:

• Create an ImmiAccount: If you don't have one, register for a free ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form accurately and completely.
• Upload Documents: Upload all your supporting documents (as gathered in Step 1) to your ImmiAccount. Ensure they are clear and correctly categorized.
• Pay the Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee using an accepted payment method.

After submitting your application, you may be required to:

• Provide Biometrics: Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and a digital photograph. You will usually receive a request for this after you submit your application.
• Undergo Health Examinations: Depending on your country of origin and planned activities in Australia, you may need to undergo medical examinations with a panel physician approved by the Australian government.

Follow the instructions provided by the Department of Home Affairs regarding these requirements promptly.

Once your application is processed, you will receive notification of the decision:

• Processing Times: Visa processing times can vary based on factors like the volume of applications and the completeness of your documentation. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for current estimated processing times.
• Decision Notification: You will be notified of the visa decision via your ImmiAccount. If your visa is granted, you will receive a visa grant notification letter outlining your visa conditions.

It is crucial to understand and comply with all conditions attached to your student visa (e.g., work hour limits, maintaining enrollment, OSHC). Non-compliance can lead to visa cancellation.

Upon your arrival in Australia, remember to:

• Activate OSHC: Ensure your Overseas Student Health Cover is active.
• Understand Visa Conditions: Re-familiarize yourself with all your visa conditions.
• Notify Provider: Inform your education provider of your Australian residential address within 7 days of arrival, and any subsequent changes within 7 days.

Your education provider's international student support services can provide further assistance upon your arrival.