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Expert Guidance for Student Visas

Your Pathway to Studying Abroad

Subclass 500 Student Visa Australia

The Subclass 500 Student Visa will allow you to live, work, and study in Australia. With this visa, you can access Australia’s high-quality education system, experience its unique culture, and gain work experience during your studies. Below is a comprehensive guide to the student visa subclass 500 application process, conditions, and work restrictions.
 

Overview of the Student Visa Subclass 500
 

The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows you to:
 

  1. Enrol in an eligible full-time study program in Australia (being a program registered on the CRICOS database)

  2. Work part-time during your studies, with specific work restrictions applied.

  3. Stay in Australia for up to 5 years, depending on the length of your course.

  4. Include eligible family members (such as your spouse or children) in your visa application.
     

This visa is suitable for students looking to pursue primary, secondary, or tertiary education in Australia, including courses at universities, vocational education, and training institutions.
 

Key Conditions of the Student Visa Subclass 500
 

When holding a student visa subclass 500, you must comply with specific conditions to maintain your visa status. These include:
 

  1. Full-time enrolment: You must be enrolled in a full-time course and maintain satisfactory attendance and progress.

  2. Health insurance: You are required to hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.

  3. Meet academic requirements: You must meet the academic performance requirements set by your institution.


No breaches: Any breach of these conditions could lead to visa cancellation, so it's crucial to stay compliant.

Working While on a Subclass 500 Student Visa

  1. One of the main advantages of the subclass 500 student visa is the ability to work part-time while studying. However students should be mindful that there are specific work restrictions under this visa:
     

  2. During the academic year: You are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks).
     

  3. During scheduled breaks: You are permitted to work unlimited hours during official school breaks or holidays.
     

  4. It's essential to adhere to these student visa subclass 500 working hours restrictions, as exceeding the limit could result in visa breaches and penalties.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Subclass 500 Student Visa Application

1. Gather Required Documents
 

The first step in applying for a student subclass 500 visa is to collect the necessary documents. These typically include:
 

  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your educational institution.

  • Proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses.

  • Evidence of English language proficiency (such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).

  • Valid passport and other identification documents.
     

Please notes requirements may change depending on whether you apply from overseas, or within Australia.

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2. Apply for the School and Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
 

Before applying for the visa, you must first apply to an Australian educational institution and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This document confirms your admission to a full-time course and is required for your visa application.
 

Please note that when applying onshore, it is possible to apply with a Letter of Offer (LOO).
 

3. Health Insurance and Medical Checks
 

Holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory while studying in Australia. The visa application process also requires you to undergo a health examination and provide a medical certificate, especially if requested by immigration authorities.

 

4. Submit Your Visa Application
 

Once you have your CoE and necessary documents, you can submit your student visa subclass 500 application online through the Australian immigration website. You will need to:
 

  • Complete the online application form.

  • Upload your documents, including CoE, health insurance proof, and financial evidence.

  • Pay the visa application fee.

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5. Attend Biometric and Health Appointments
 

As part of the visa application process, you may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) and attend a medical examination. Be sure to follow the instructions provided during your application process to complete these steps in a timely manner.

 

6. Visa Decision
 

Once you submit your application, the Department of Home Affairs will review it. Processing times vary, so be sure to apply well in advance of your intended start date. You will be notified of the outcome via email, and if approved, you will receive your visa grant letter with all the details about your stay in Australia.

Please note, that for applications made in Australia, in the evet of a visa refusal, you may apply for a review of the decision within the time prescribed in your visa refusal letter.

What Happens After the Visa Is Granted?

Subclass 500 student visa granted

After receiving your subclass 500 student visa, you can travel to Australia and begin your studies. It’s important to maintain compliance with your visa conditions, such as staying enroled, maintaining your health insurance, and adhering to student visa subclass 500 work restrictions.
 

Additionally, if you wish to extend your stay in Australia after your course, you may be eligible to apply for other visas, such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to work in Australia after completing your studies.

Navigating the Australian immigration process can be challenging due to its complexity and frequent changes in laws and regulations. Engaging a migration lawyer or a registered migration agent can significantly enhance your chances of a successful application.
 

With Guney Migration Consultancy, clients benefit from expert guidance tailored to their unique situations. The firm is led by Ceren Guney, a migration lawyer, and Feriha Guney (MARN 0960690), a registered migration agent. They combine deep knowledge of Australian migration law with a client-first approach, ensuring that applicants make informed decisions throughout their migration journey.

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