Professional Student Visa Support for Australia

If you’re an international student looking to study in Australia, you’ll need an Australian student visa.

At BH Law Group, our expert migration agents are here to simplify the process for you. We know how complicated visa applications can be, so we strive to make your student visa application smooth and straightforward.

Let us help you achieve your dream of studying in Australia with ease.

Understanding the Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at an accredited educational institution in Australia. This visa also grants you the opportunity to work part-time, enabling you to support yourself while you study and experience life in Australia.

Eligibility Criteria for Student Visa

To get an Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500), you need to meet several requirements. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand:

Acceptance from an Australian School

First, you need an acceptance letter from an Australian school. This means the school has reviewed your application and thinks you’re a good fit for their course. Without this letter, you can’t apply for the visa.

Age Requirements

For school students, you must be at least six years old. If you’re planning on higher education, there’s no upper age limit, but make sure the course is appropriate for your age and educational background.

Financial Proof

You need to show you can afford your stay in Australia. This includes covering your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. The Australian government wants to make sure you won’t run into financial trouble while you’re here.

English Proficiency

You must prove you can speak, read, write, and understand English. This usually means taking an English test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Each course and institution might have different score requirements, so check what your school needs.

Health Insurance

You need to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This insurance helps pay for any medical or hospital care you might need while in Australia. It’s a must-have for all international students unless you’re from a country with a reciprocal healthcare agreement.

Good Character

Australia wants to make sure you’re of good character. This means you should have a clean criminal record. Sometimes, you might need to provide a police certificate to prove this.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement

You need to show that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of studying. This means providing a statement that explains your circumstances in your home country, why you chose your course, and your plans after you finish studying.

Health Requirements

You might need to have a health examination to ensure you meet the health standards set by the Australian government. This helps ensure you won’t bring any serious diseases into the country.

Academic Requirements

Depending on your course, you may need to meet specific academic requirements. This means having completed certain levels of education or specific subjects before you can start your course in Australia.

Each of these criteria ensures that you are well-prepared and suitable for studying in Australia. Meeting them all might seem like a lot, but it’s worth it to make sure your time in Australia goes smoothly! If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to BH Law Group.

Types of Student Visa

When planning to study in Australia, it’s important to choose the right type of student visa that fits your study plans. Here’s a detailed look at the main student visa options available:

Subclass 500 (Student Visa)

This is the most common visa for international students. The Subclass 500 visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, up to five years. It covers a wide range of study programs, from primary school to postgraduate research. With this visa, you can work part-time during your course and full-time during holidays, which helps with living expenses and gaining work experience.

Subclass 590 (Student Guardian Visa)

If you’re under 18 and need a guardian to come with you, they will need to apply for the Subclass 590 visa. This visa allows a parent, custodian, or relative to stay in Australia as your guardian. The guardian can stay until you turn 18 or until your visa expires. It’s important to note that the guardian cannot work while in Australia.

Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa)

After finishing your studies, you might want to stay in Australia to gain work experience. The Subclass 485 visa is perfect for this. It allows you to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after you’ve completed your course. There are two streams under this visa: the Graduate Work Stream for graduates with skills related to an occupation on Australia’s skilled occupation list, and the Post-Study Work Stream for graduates with higher education degrees.

Subclass 407 (Training Visa)

For those looking to undertake workplace-based training to improve their skills in their chosen profession, university, or field of expertise, the Subclass 407 visa is ideal. This visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily to participate in occupational training activities.

These student visas are designed to cater to different needs and circumstances, ensuring you have the right visa for your study journey in Australia. Make sure you choose the one that best fits your educational goals and personal situation. If you’re unsure, seek advice from your educational institution or a trusted immigration advisor to help you make the right decision.

Application Process

Applying for an Australia Student Visa might seem like a big task, but with the right steps, you can make it smooth and straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Choose Your Course and Institution

First things first, decide on the course you want to study and the institution where you want to enrol. Ensure the institution is registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Step 2: Receive Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Once you’ve been accepted into a course, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your chosen institution. This is an essential document that you’ll need for your visa application. The CoE confirms your enrolment and provides details about your course and its duration.

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

Head to the Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount. This online account is where you’ll complete and submit your visa application. It’s also where you can track the status of your application and receive updates.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Before you start your application, make sure you have all the necessary documents. These typically include:

Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
A valid passport
Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Academic transcripts and qualifications
English language proficiency test results (such as IELTS or TOEFL)
A statement of purpose explaining your intentions to study in Australia

Step 5: Complete Your Application

Log in to your ImmiAccount and fill out the student visa application form. Be sure to provide accurate information and double-check your details before submitting. Upload all the required documents as part of your application.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Application Fee

There is a fee for applying for a student visa, which you must pay at the time of submitting your application. The fee can vary, so check the latest fee details on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Step 7: Attend a Health Examination (if required)

Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, you might need to undergo a health examination. If required, you’ll receive instructions on how to complete this step after submitting your application.

Step 8: Submit Your Biometrics (if required)

Some applicants might need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of the application process. If this applies to you, you’ll receive a notification with instructions on how to do this.

Step 9: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application and completing all required steps, it’s time to wait for a decision. Processing times can vary, so be patient and regularly check your ImmiAccount for updates.

Step 10: Receive Your Visa Decision

Once your visa application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If your visa is granted, congratulations! You can now start planning your journey to Australia. If your application is unsuccessful, you will receive an explanation, and you may have options to review the decision or reapply.

Following these steps carefully can help you navigate the application process with ease. Remember, if you have any doubts or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your institution’s support services or a trusted immigration advisor.

Work and Study Conditions

Balancing work and study in Australia is possible, but it’s important to understand the conditions attached to your student visa. Here are some key points:

Work Hours: During the academic term, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. During scheduled course breaks, you can work unlimited hours. This flexibility allows you to gain work experience and support yourself financially.
Course Progress: You must maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance. Falling behind in your studies could jeopardise your visa status, so it’s crucial to balance your work commitments with your academic responsibilities.
Work Rights for Dependents: If you have family members accompanying you, they can also work. Generally, partners can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. If you are studying a master’s or doctorate, your partner can work unlimited hours.
Internships and Work Placements: Some courses include internships or work placements as part of the curriculum. These placements are usually not counted towards your work hours, provided they are a required part of your course.

Choose BH Law Group for Student Visas

When it comes to securing an Australian student visa, BH Law Group is your trusted partner. Here’s why choosing us makes all the difference:

Expertise in Student Visa Applications

Our team at BH Law Group consists of seasoned immigration specialists who are well-versed in Australian student visa regulations. With years of experience, we guide you through the entire application process, ensuring all details are covered for a successful outcome.

Personalised Service

At BH Law Group, we understand that every student’s situation is unique. We offer personalised services tailored to your specific needs. From the initial consultation to obtaining your visa, we take the time to understand your goals and craft a strategy that maximises your chances of approval.

Proven Track Record

Our success stories speak for themselves. BH Law Group has helped countless students secure their visas and start their educational journey in Australia. Our clients’ testimonials highlight our commitment to achieving positive results and making the visa process as smooth as possible.

Transparent Pricing

Transparency and integrity are core values at BH Law Group. We provide clear and upfront information about our fees and charges, ensuring there are no surprises. This transparency helps you plan your finances with confidence.

Comprehensive Support

Beyond visa applications, we offer comprehensive support to help you settle in Australia. We provide guidance on practical aspects like accommodation, local amenities, and community integration, ensuring your transition is seamless and stress-free.

Choosing BH Law Group for your student visa needs means partnering with experts who are dedicated to your success. We combine legal expertise with personalised service and unwavering support to ensure a smooth journey to your new academic life in Australia.

Ready to start your student visa application?

Contact BH Law Group today.

We’re here to help you every step of the way

FAQ

Q: What are the requirements for an Australian student visa?

Ans: To get an Australian student visa, you need to be enrolled in a registered course, have adequate health insurance, prove you have enough money for your stay, meet the English language requirements, and pass health and character checks.

Q: What are the new rules for student visas in Australia 2024?

Ans: In 2024, changes include streamlined visa processing for high-risk countries, increased work-hour limits to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, and enhanced post-study work rights, especially for STEM graduates.

Q: How many types of student visas are there in Australia?

Ans: There are several types of student visas, with the Subclass 500 visa being the most common for students enrolling in full-time courses. Other visas cater to different educational and training needs, like postgraduate research or vocational training.

Q: Which visa is best for students in Australia?

Ans: The Subclass 500 visa is the best choice for most international students. It covers a wide range of courses and allows you to work part-time during your studies.

Q: Who can sponsor me for an Australian student visa?

Ans: Sponsors can be parents, legal guardians, spouses, or de facto partners. Financial support can also come from scholarships, educational institutions, or employers.

Q: How many times can I extend my student visa in Australia?

Ans: You can extend your student Visa as many times as needed, provided you meet the eligibility requirements each time. This includes maintaining satisfactory course progress and having adequate financial support.