1. What is the Subclass 500 Visa? Benefits of the Subclass 500 Visa
The Subclass 500 Visa is a visa for international students who wish to study in Australia in a registered full-time course. This visa allows you to:
- Study in Australia for the duration of your course, typically with additional time after the course ends.
- Work part-time for up to 40 hours every two weeks while your course is in session, and work full-time during breaks.
- Bring family members (such as a spouse and children) to Australia as dependents.
2. Conditions for Applying for the Subclass 500 Visa
The Subclass 500 Visa requires you to meet several strict conditions to ensure that your purpose for studying in Australia is genuine and that you have the financial capacity to support yourself during your stay in Australia. Below are the specific and more detailed requirements:
Course Enrollment Conditions
You must be accepted by an Australian educational institution for a registered full-time course. You need to provide proof of admission, usually in the form of a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate the ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. This typically includes:
- Bank statements or documents showing that you or your financial sponsor have enough funds to cover your expenses in Australia.
- A financial guarantee letter if you have a sponsor.
- Scholarship documents (if applicable).
Health Insurance Requirement
You must purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) before arriving in Australia, which must be maintained for the entire duration of your stay.
Health and Character Requirements
- Health: You need to undergo a health examination to meet Australian government requirements, which includes medical tests and an overall health assessment.
- Character: You must provide a police clearance certificate to show that you have no criminal record.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement
You need to prove that your primary purpose is to study and that you do not intend to stay in Australia permanently after completing your studies. This may include submitting a personal statement, study plan, or reference letters.
English Language Requirement
If you are not from an English-speaking country, you must prove your English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or other equivalent certificates.
Thoroughly preparing these documents and fully meeting these requirements will increase your chances of being granted a visa, allowing you to pursue your educational goals in Australia.
3. Subclass 500 Visa Application Documents
The Subclass 500 Visa application requires the following documents:
- Application form.
- Proof of admission (Confirmation of Enrolment - CoE).
- Evidence of financial status.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Police clearance certificate.
- Proof of English proficiency (if required).
- Personal documents such as passport, birth certificate, etc.
4. Processing Time and Fees for the Subclass 500 Visa
Processing times can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on individual circumstances.
The basic visa fee is approximately AUD 630 for the main applicant, with additional fees for each accompanying dependent.
5. Tips for Staying in Australia After Your Subclass 500 Visa Expires
To stay in Australia after your student visa expires, you can:
- Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (485), which allows you to stay and work for a specific period.
- If you have the right skills and qualifications, you can apply for other work visas, such as a Skilled Independent Visa.
- Consider pursuing further studies or enrolling in a new course to extend your stay.
