Subclass 500 Student Visa
The primary visa for international students to study full-time at Australian education providers, with work rights and the option to include family members.
The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows international students to pursue full-time study at a CRICOS-registered education provider in Australia. It covers all levels of study from English language courses and vocational training (VET) through to bachelor, masters, and doctoral degrees.
Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Family members — including a partner/spouse and dependent children — can be included in the application or added later as subsequent entrants.
You can "package" multiple courses on a single visa application (e.g., English course + bachelor degree), as long as they lead progressively to your principal course. The visa is granted for the duration of your course plus a short period before and after, up to a maximum of 5 years.
Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) from a CRICOS-registered provider
- Full-time enrolment in an eligible course
- Course packaging allowed (multiple courses leading to principal course)
- Demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia
- Factors assessed: home country circumstances, course value, immigration history
- For applicants under 18: parent/guardian intentions also assessed
- Genuine access to sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel
- English language proficiency (as specified by the institution and Department)
- Adequate health insurance (OSHC) for the visa duration
- Meet health and character requirements
Application Process
Step 1: Receive Offer & COE
Apply to your chosen CRICOS-registered institution and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE). For multiple courses, obtain a COE for each.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather identity documents, financial evidence, English test results, OSHC, and GTE statement. Under 18s need welfare arrangements.
Step 3: Lodge Visa Application
Apply online via ImmiAccount. Include COE(s), supporting documents, and visa fees. Biometrics may be required.
Step 4: Visa Grant & Study
Once granted, travel to Australia and commence your studies. Maintain full-time enrolment and comply with visa conditions.
Costs & Processing Time
Processing Time
Processing times vary by nationality, institution, and assessment level. Apply well before your course start date to allow time for processing.
Adding a Partner or Family
You can include your partner/spouse and dependent children in your visa application. If you want to add a partner after lodgement, you must withdraw and re-lodge the entire application. Partners added at application time gain work rights in Australia.
About the Subclass 500 Student Visa
The primary visa for international students to study full-time at Australian education providers, with work rights and the option to include family members.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while studying?
Yes. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
Can I change courses?
You can change courses but must maintain a valid COE and notify the Department. Changing to a lower-level course may affect your visa.
Can I add my partner later?
Your partner must be declared at application time. If you want to add a partner after lodgement, you must withdraw and re-lodge a new application. Partners can also apply as subsequent entrants after visa grant.
Does the 500 visa lead to PR?
Not directly, but completing Australian studies can lead to a Subclass 485 Graduate Visa, which provides time to pursue skilled migration pathways (189, 190, 491).
What is OSHC?
Overseas Student Health Cover — mandatory health insurance for student visa holders. It must cover your entire visa duration.
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