Understanding Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Subclass 500 visa allows international students to stay in Australia for the duration of their enrolled course.
Key Features
- Duration: Up to 5 years
- Work Rights: 48 hours per fortnight during studies
- Family: Can include dependents
- Post-Study: Eligible for Temporary Graduate visa (485)
Visa Requirements
Essential Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| CoE | Confirmation of Enrolment |
| GTE Statement | Genuine Temporary Entrant |
| OSHC | Overseas Student Health Cover |
| Financial Proof | See below |
| English Score | IELTS/PTE |
| Passport | Valid for travel |
Financial Requirements 2025 (Updated May 2024)
| Component | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Living Costs | 29,710/year |
| Tuition | First year amount |
| Travel | Return airfare |
| Dependent (adult) | 10,394/year |
| Dependent (child) | 4,449/year |
Alternative: Demonstrate annual income of at least AUD $87,856 (single applicant) or parent/partner income of AUD $62,222.
Visa Application Fee (July 2025)
From 1 July 2025, the student visa application fee is AUD $2,000.
GTE Statement Guide
The Genuine Temporary Entrant statement is crucial for visa approval.
What to Include
- Current Circumstances: Education, work, family ties
- Why Australia: Specific reasons for choosing Australia
- Course Relevance: How it fits your career goals
- Future Plans: Clear return intentions
- Home Ties: Family, property, career prospects
Common GTE Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Vague statements | Be specific with examples |
| No return plan | Articulate clear career path |
| Course mismatch | Explain logical progression |
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
Approved Providers
| Provider | Coverage Level |
|---|---|
| Medibank | Standard to Premium |
| Allianz | Standard to Premium |
| Bupa | Standard to Premium |
| CBHS | Standard to Premium |
Coverage Period
- Must cover entire study duration
- Add buffer for potential extensions
- Purchase before visa lodgment
Application Timeline
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Receive CoE | 2-4 weeks |
| Gather documents | 2-3 weeks |
| Submit application | 1-2 days |
| Processing | 4-5 weeks |
| Decision | 1-2 days |
Last Updated: March 2026
