Visa Guidelines

Australian Student Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

Who Needs a Student Visa?

Any international student planning to study in Australia for more than three months must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

For courses shorter than three months, students may apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) or a Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462).

Visa Issuance and Regulatory Authority

Student visas are issued by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). To be eligible, your study program must be a full-time registered course under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Electronic Visa System (eVisa)

The issuance of student visas has been streamlined through the e-Visa system, which allows approved education agents to process applications electronically. This makes the process faster and more efficient.

Growth in Student Visas

The number of Indian students granted Australian student visas has been steadily increasing. In the September quarter of 2024, there were 115,000 Indian students on student visas in Australia, a significant rise from previous years.

Australian Student Visa Application Process

Step 1: Apply to a University

  • Apply for admission to a CRICOS-registered institution.
  • Receive an Offer Letter from the university.
  • Pay the tuition fees and obtain an Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE).

Step 2: Meet Student Visa Requirements

  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
  • Financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay
  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement

Step 3: Submit Visa Application

  • Online E-Lodgment via the official ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website.
  • Processing Time: Visa processing times vary but generally take 8 to 12 weeks, so applying early is recommended.

Key Student Visa Requirements

English Language Proficiency

Non-English speaking students must provide IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent test scores.

Work Rights for Student Visa Holders

  • Students can work 48 hours every two weeks during their course.
  • Unlimited work hours are allowed during scheduled breaks.
  • Family members accompanying students may also be eligible to work, depending on the visa conditions.

Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)

  • Issued by the educational provider upon admission and tuition payment.
  • Required for visa application and extensions.
  • Contains essential details like course start and end dates.

Conditions for Student Visa Holders

  • Maintain full-time enrollment in a CRICOS-registered course.
  • Meet academic and attendance requirements.
  • Hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) at all times.
  • Notify the university of any address changes within 7 days.
  • Inform the university if transferring to another institution.
  • Work within the prescribed hours as per visa conditions.

Student Visa Subclasses

Australia’s student visas are categorized based on the type of course:

  • Subclass 570: Independent ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses)
  • Subclass 571: Schools
  • Subclass 572: Vocational Education and Training (VET)
  • Subclass 573: Higher Education
  • Subclass 574: Postgraduate Research
  • Subclass 575: Non-award
  • Subclass 576: AusAID or Defence-sponsored students

For Indian students, most visa subclasses fall under Assessment Level 4, requiring additional documentation.

How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa?

Once you receive your eCoE, follow these steps:

  • Prepare Documentation:
    • Valid Passport
    • Visa Application Form (Form-157A)
    • Offer Letter from an Australian institution
    • eCoE issued by the university
    • Academic transcripts (original and notarized copies)
    • English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
    • Proof of sufficient financial support
    • OSHC proof (health insurance coverage)
    • Work experience certificates (if applicable)
    • Birth/marriage certificates for dependent family members (if applicable)
    • Under-18 students require welfare arrangements approval
  • Submit the Visa Application
    • Online via ImmiAccount
  • Pay the Visa Application Fee
    • AUD 1600 (subject to change, check DHA website for updates)
    • Payment methods: Credit card, BPay, or bank transfer
  • Attend Health Checkup Applicants may need a medical examination.
  • Wait for Processing & Decision
    • If additional documents are needed, you will be notified.
    • Processing takes 8 to 12 weeks on average.

Financial Documents Required

Students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Living expenses

AUD 29,710 per year – For single applicant

AUD 7,362 per year  – If partners coming with you

AUD 3,152 per year – If Child coming along with you

Acceptable financial documents include:

  • Official bank statements from the past 6 months
  • Loan sanction letters (if applicable)
  • Sponsorship affidavits (if applicable)
  • Income tax returns of sponsors
  • Proof of business ownership or property (if applicable)

Why Choose Impel for Your Visa Process?

Navigating the Australian student visa process can be overwhelming, but Impel Overseas Consultants ensures a smooth experience with:

  • Expert guidance on document preparation
  • Assistance with e-Visa submission
  • Updates on visa policy changes
  • Personalized support for visa success

For expert assistance, contact Impel Overseas Consultants today!