Do you have a dream about world-class education in a multicultural country full of life? The most common way through which you can realise this dream in Australia is through the student visa (subclass 500). It is a visa that allows international students to study in Australia on a full-time basis, providing them with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture and earn a valuable qualification simultaneously.

At VXL Education, providing education and migration services in Australia, we have mastered the details surrounding the visa application procedure, and we are determined to ensure we take you through this process step by step so that you have a successful application process to get your visa 500.

What is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The student visa (subclass 500) is a temporary visa that is established in Australia to suit full-time international students who aspire to study in Australia. It enables you to pursue a needful course of studies, which is an excellent chance to add academic/professional value to your image.

Using a student visa 500, you are not only able to achieve your quest in an educational course, but you are also able to work part time thus sustaining yourself and tasting life in Australia on some temporary basis. It is a visa that opens its doors to the lovely scenery, lively cities, and plethora of prospects available in Australia. When you ask yourself, What is a subclass 500 visa in Australia, it is simply the extensive form of visa to all foreign students.

What can you do with this visa?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers a range of benefits that go beyond just academic pursuits, enriching your overall experience in Australia.

Work While You Study

One of the most significant advantages of the student visa (subclass 500 conditions) is the ability to work. Generally, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) when your course is in session. During scheduled course breaks, you can work unlimited hours. This work right allows you to gain valuable work experience, offset your living expenses, and integrate into the Australian workforce. For postgraduate research students (Master’s by research and PhD), there are typically no work hour restrictions once your research commences.

Bring Your Family

The subclass 500 visa allows eligible family members, such as your partner and dependent children under 18, to be included in your visa application or join you later. This enables families to stay together while you pursue your studies in Australia, provided you can demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to support them.

Tax and Compliance

As a student visa holder, you will be subject to Australian tax laws if you earn income. Understanding the student visa 500 tax rate is crucial. Generally, income up to a certain threshold is tax-free, with progressive tax rates applying to income above that. It’s essential to comply with all tax obligations and apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) if you plan to work.

Access to Quality Healthcare

It is a mandatory subclass 500 visa requirement to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. OSHC provides comprehensive health insurance, covering various medical and hospital services, ensuring you have access to quality healthcare throughout your studies.

Explore and Travel

With a subclass 500 visa, you can travel in and out of Australia as many times as you like while your visa is valid. This provides the flexibility to visit your home country or explore other destinations during your study breaks.

Types of Study Covered by Visa 500

The student visa subclass 500 is incredibly versatile, covering a wide range of educational sectors in Australia. This means you can pursue almost any type of formal study program under this subclass 500 visa.

• English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS): For those looking to improve their English language skills before or during their main course of study.
• Primary and Secondary School: Allows children to attend primary or secondary schools in Australia.
• Vocational Education and Training (VET): Covers courses that provide practical skills and qualifications for specific industries, ranging from certificates to diplomas.
• Higher Education: Includes undergraduate degrees (Bachelor’s), associate degrees, and higher education diplomas.
• Postgraduate Research: For students undertaking Master’s by Research or Doctoral degrees (PhD).
• Non-Award Courses: For students undertaking individual subjects or short courses that do not lead to a formal award.
• Foreign Affairs or Defence sponsored courses: Specific courses sponsored by foreign governments or the Australian Department of Defence.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a student visa to Australia, you must meet several key student visa (subclass 500 conditions). VXL Education will help you understand and prepare for these requirements, ensuring your application is complete and compliant. This includes essential items on your 500 visa checklist.

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). This is evidence that you have been accepted into a course.
• English Language Proficiency: Unless exempt, you must provide evidence of your English language ability through an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE). The required score varies depending on your chosen course and education provider.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): You must demonstrate that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of study and comply with your visa conditions. This often involves a written statement and supporting documents to prove your ties to your home country.
• Financial Proof: You must show that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for yourself and any accompanying family members. The Department of Home Affairs sets minimum living expense requirements.
• Health Insurance: You and any family members included in your application must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay.
• Character and Health Requirements: You must meet the Australian government’s character requirements (e.g., no substantial criminal record) and health requirements (e.g., undergoing medical examinations if required).
• Age Requirements: You must be at least 6 years old. Specific age limits apply for certain school sectors.
• Welfare Arrangements (for applicants under 18): If you are under 18, you must have adequate welfare arrangements in place for your accommodation, support, and general welfare while in Australia.

If you’re planning a short-term visit for tourism, business, or family, explore the Visitor Visa Subclass 600 as an alternative option.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Student Visa in Australia

Applying for the Australia visa 500 can seem daunting, but with VXL Education’s expert guidance, the process becomes clear and manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1 – Check your eligibility

Before anything else, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), as outlined above. This includes having a CoE, meeting English language requirements, and demonstrating genuine temporary intent.

Step 2 – Gather Required Documents

Compile all necessary supporting documents. This will include your passport, CoE, proof of English proficiency, financial documents, OSHC details, GTE statement, and any other relevant certificates or identity documents. Ensure all documents are certified translations if not in English.

Step 3 – Submit your Visa Application Online

Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. This is where you will complete and submit your visa application form online. Attach all your supporting documents as required.

Step 4 – Undergo Health and Character Checks

Once you’ve submitted your application, you may be required to undergo health examinations with a panel physician and/or provide police certificates to meet the health and character requirements. You will receive instructions on how to do this.

Step 5 – Wait for Processing Time

After submitting your complete application, you will need to wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process it. Processing times can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance.

Step 6 – Receive your Visa and Start your Journey

If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant notification. This document will outline your visa conditions and validity period. You can then make your travel arrangements to Australia and commence your exciting educational journey.

Cost of Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Understanding the financial commitment is a crucial part of planning your study abroad journey. The student visa Australia cost involves several components:

• Visa Application Fee: As of July 1, 2024, the base application charge for the main applicant for a subclass 500 visa is AUD 1,600. Additional charges apply for including family members in the application (e.g., AUD 1,190 for applicants aged 18 or over, AUD 390 for those under 18). Please note that this fee can change, so it’s best to check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current rates.
• Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) costs will vary depending on the length of your stay and the provider.
• English Proficiency Tests: Fees for English language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
• Living Expenses: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your living costs in Australia. The Department of Home Affairs specifies a minimum annual living expense amount (currently AUD 29,710 for the primary applicant). This amount increases if you include family members.
• Other Expenses: This may include costs for medical examinations, police checks, translation services, and travel to Australia.

Student Visa Application Processing Time For Australia

The 500 visa processing time can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the volume of applications, the completeness of your application, and the education sector you are applying for. While some visas are processed quickly, others may take longer.

Here’s an approximate breakdown of subclass 500 processing time based on common education sectors (these are indicative and can change):

• School Sector: Can range from a few weeks to several months.
• Vocational Education and Training (VET) Sector: Often processed within a few weeks to a couple of months.
• Higher Education Sector: Typically processed within a few weeks to a couple of months.
• Postgraduate Research Sector: May take longer, sometimes up to several months.

It is highly recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your course start date to avoid any last-minute stress or delays.

Student Visa Work Rights and Restrictions

Understanding your subclass 500 working hours and general student visa Australia work rights is vital for compliance.

• Work Hour Limits: Generally, student visa holders are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is “in session” (i.e., during study periods). This limit applies whether you are employed or self-employed (e.g., holding an ABN).
• Unlimited Hours During Breaks: During official course breaks or holidays, you are permitted to work unlimited hours.
• Course Commencement: You can only start working after your course officially commences.
• Research Students: Students enrolled in Master’s by research or PhD programs typically have no work hour restrictions once their research has begun.
• Dependents’ Work Rights: Dependents (partner) of an undergraduate student visa holder have the same work limits (48 hours per fortnight). However, dependents of Master’s or PhD students can work without any time limitation.
• Consequences of Non-Compliance: Violating work conditions, such as working more than the permitted hours, can lead to serious consequences, including visa cancellation.

Why is VXL Education Your Trusted Education and Migration Partner?

At VXL Education, we pride ourselves on being a leading education and migration consultancy, offering unparalleled support for your Australian study dreams.

• Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises highly experienced education and migration consultants with in-depth knowledge of Australian visa regulations, particularly the student visa subclass 500.
• High Success Rate: We have a proven track record of successful visa applications, thanks to our meticulous approach and understanding of the requirements for the subclass 500 visa.
• Personalised Services: We provide tailored advice and support, understanding that every student’s journey is unique. From course selection to visa application and pre-departure briefings, we are with you every step of the way.
• MARA Agent Support: Our affiliation with MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority) registered agents ensures that you receive ethical, professional, and up-to-date migration advice.
• Comprehensive Support: We assist with everything from preparing your GTE statement and collating your financial documents to lodging your application and liaising with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.

Start Your Australian Education Journey with VXL Migration and Education Consultants

Don’t let the complexities of the visa application process deter you from your Australian education aspirations. With VXL Education, securing your visa 500 is made simple and straightforward. Our dedicated team is ready to help you navigate every requirement for your student visa 500, from initial consultation to successful visa grant.

Contact VXL Education today to begin your exciting journey to study, work, and live in Australia! Your future awaits!

With registration under MARA, our team remains alongside Australian immigration regulations to ensure accurate visa assessments and reliable assistance.

Many international students eventually transition to permanent residency through options like the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 after graduation or state-sponsored pathways such as the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190.

Contact us for any assistance regarding the student visa subclass 500, and rest assured of receiving the utmost support.