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Subclass 500
Student visa
Lets you study full-time at a registered Australian education provider for the length of your course.
Since 2 October 2026, most new student visa applicants can no longer include a partner or children, and students in Australia generally need to move to a higher-level qualification to get another student visa. Exceptions apply, including for PhD students.
Who this visa is for
International students enrolled in a registered course in Australia, from school to postgraduate level.
- Visa type
- Temporary
- Where you apply
- In or outside Australia
- Length of stay
- The length of your course, plus a short period
- Work
- Up to 48 hours a fortnight during study periods
- Next step
- Temporary Graduate visa 485 after eligible study
Key requirements
- Enrolment in a registered course with a Confirmation of Enrolment
- You meet the Genuine Student requirement
- Enough money for tuition, living costs and travel
- English language ability, where required
- Overseas Student Health Cover for your whole stay
- Health and character requirements, and welfare arrangements if you are under 18
What this visa lets you do
- Study full-time in Australia
- Work up to 48 hours a fortnight during study periods, and without limit during scheduled breaks
- Travel in and out of Australia
- You must stay enrolled, attend and make satisfactory progress
Documents you'll usually need
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a registered provider
- Passport
- Answers to the Genuine Student questions, with supporting evidence
- Evidence of enough money for tuition, living and travel costs
- Overseas Student Health Cover for your whole stay
- English test results, where required
- Academic transcripts and certificates
Documents not in English need accredited translations. The Department may ask for others depending on your circumstances.
Questions
500 visa questions
Can I change my course?
You may need a new visa, especially if you are changing to a lower-level course. Get advice before you change.
My student visa was refused. What can I do?
Refusals of applications made in Australia can usually be reviewed by the Administrative Review Tribunal within a strict time limit.
General information only, current at November 2026. Visa criteria, fees and processing change often, including each 1 July. Book a consultation for advice on your situation.
Thinking about the 500?
Book a consultation and we'll check whether you meet every criterion before you apply.