Student Visas
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Commonwealth Acts of Parliament, federal regulations, and official government guidance.
What is this right?
The Student Visa (subclass 500) lets you study full-time at a registered Australian educational institution. You must be enrolled in a course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) while their course is in session. During scheduled course breaks, there is no limit on work hours. If you are studying a masters by research or doctoral degree, there is no work hour limit at any time.
Key visa conditions include Condition 8202 (you must remain enrolled and make satisfactory course progress) and Condition 8105 (work limitation). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. Your education provider is required to report you to the Department of Home Affairs if you breach your enrolment conditions under the ESOS Act.
You must have enough money to cover your tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department sets a minimum annual living cost amount that you must demonstrate when applying.
When does it apply?
- You have been accepted into a full-time course at a CRICOS-registered institution in Australia.
- You have a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider.
- You can demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel.
- You meet English language requirements and the Genuine Student test.
What should you do?
- Apply online through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Maintain your enrolment and attend classes — your provider must report non-compliance to the Department.
- Track your work hours carefully — the 48-hour per fortnight limit is strictly enforced during term time.
- Keep your OSHC active for the entire duration of your visa — letting it lapse can result in visa cancellation.
- Notify the Department if you change your address, course, or provider within 7 days.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't exceed the 48-hour work limit per fortnight during term — this is a visa breach that can lead to cancellation.
- Don't drop below a full-time study load without getting written approval from your provider first.
- Don't let your OSHC expire — gaps in health cover can result in visa cancellation.
- Don't assume you can change courses freely — switching providers in the first 6 months requires a release letter from your current provider.
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