Australia has long been one of the most preferred destinations for international students, offering top-notch education and multicultural living. But moving abroad often means leaving loved ones behind. Fortunately, the student subsequent entrant visa offers a valuable opportunity for family members to join international students in Australia, making family reunification possible while pursuing academic goals. If you or your family members are wondering how the subsequent entrant visa 500 works, this comprehensive guide will take you through every essential detail — from eligibility and application steps to costs, requirements, and processing times.
The student subsequent entrant visa, officially a part of the Student Visa Subclass 500, allows eligible family members of international students to enter and stay in Australia while the main student continues their studies.
In simpler terms, if you’re studying in Australia on a student visa subclass 500, your spouse or dependent children can apply later to join you through this visa pathway. It’s designed for families who, for various reasons, couldn’t travel together initially but still wish to live together during the course of study.
This visa ensures that your academic journey is not hindered by long-distance separation, giving students emotional and moral support while maintaining family unity.
For many international students, studying abroad is both exciting and challenging. Being far from family can make adjustment harder. The 500 visa subsequent entrant category ensures your loved ones can share your Australian experience.
Whether it’s your spouse managing the home, or children continuing their education in Australian schools, this visa allows you to balance academic focus and family life — all while living in a secure, multicultural environment.
To apply for a student subsequent entrant visa 500, the applicant must be a family member of the main visa holder (the primary student). Eligible family members typically include:
Spouse or de facto partner of the main student visa holder
Dependent child or step-child, usually under 18 years of age
These family members must provide sufficient proof of relationship and meet health, character, and financial criteria.
The subsequent entrant visa 500 requirements are straightforward but must be followed carefully to avoid delays or rejections.
Here’s what applicants must meet:
Applicants must show evidence of being a genuine family member — such as a marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation (for de facto partners), or birth certificates for dependent children.
Applicants must demonstrate they can support themselves (and dependents) financially while in Australia. This includes funds for living expenses, travel, and schooling (if applicable).
Every applicant must meet Australian health and character standards. This often includes a health check-up and a police clearance certificate.
Like the main student visa holder, subsequent entrants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant condition — proving their stay in Australia is temporary and study-related.
The primary visa holder must currently hold a valid student visa subclass 500 and be enrolled in an eligible full-time course in a registered institution.
Applying for the student subsequent entrant visa involves several structured steps. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to make it easier:
Before applying, prepare all relevant documents such as:
Marriage or birth certificates
Evidence of relationship (joint bank accounts, photos, communication)
Financial documents (bank statements, sponsor letters)
Health and character certificates
Refer to the subsequent entrant visa 500 checklist provided by the Department of Home Affairs to ensure all documents are included.
Applications are usually lodged online via the ImmiAccount portal. Each family member must complete a separate application form (Form 157A) under the student subclass 500 category.
The subsequent entrant visa 500 fees vary depending on the number of applicants. As of 2025, the base application fee for each family member starts at around AUD 710 (subject to change). Additional charges may apply for dependents or biometrics.
Applicants will be asked to undergo health examinations and submit biometrics (fingerprints and photos).
After submitting all documents and fees, applicants must wait for the student subsequent entrant visa processing time, which depends on the completeness of the application and individual circumstances.
The processing time for subsequent entrant visa 500 generally ranges from 3 to 6 months, but it can vary depending on factors such as:
Application accuracy
Number of dependents
Verification of supporting documents
Country of residence
To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure all information is accurate and documents are genuine. Engaging an education migration consultant in Australia can help ensure compliance and reduce waiting time.
Applying for a student subsequent entrant visa is more than just about family reunion — it brings multiple lifestyle and emotional benefits.
Stay close to your loved ones while you study in Australia, promoting emotional balance and a better learning experience.
Dependents (spouse/partner) can often work in Australia under specific conditions. School-aged children can also attend local or international schools.
Family members can enroll in Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to access Australia’s world-class medical facilities.
Your family can enjoy Australia’s diverse lifestyle, safe environment, and global opportunities — a true international experience for everyone.
The subsequent entrant visa 500 checklist helps ensure your application meets all requirements. Typical documents include:
Valid passports for each applicant
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Birth certificate(s) of dependent children
Evidence of relationship (photos, communication proof, financial ties)
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) documentation
Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements, income proof, sponsorship)
Enrolment confirmation (CoE) of the main visa holder
Police and medical certificates
Providing genuine, well-organized documentation increases your chances of quick approval.
Even eligible applicants can face challenges if their application is incomplete or inconsistent. Common reasons for 500 visa subsequent entrant rejection include:
Missing or incorrect documents
Insufficient financial evidence
Doubts regarding relationship authenticity
Not meeting health or character criteria
Incomplete Genuine Temporary Entrant statements
Always double-check your submission against the official subsequent entrant visa 500 requirements to avoid delays.
Submit Complete Documents Early – Include all necessary evidence at the time of lodgement.
Ensure Consistency – All documents should match details on your main student visa file.
Track Progress Regularly – Use your ImmiAccount to stay updated.
Seek Professional Guidance – Consulting an education migration consultant in Australia ensures accuracy and compliance.
As mentioned earlier, the subsequent entrant visa 500 fees depend on the type of applicant:
Additional costs may include health checks, police certificates, and biometric collection. While these fees may vary, budgeting appropriately helps avoid last-minute surprises.
Applicants often ask: “How long will my visa take to be processed?”
The student subsequent entrant visa processing time depends largely on your case complexity. While most are finalized within 3–6 months, certain cases might extend to 8 months if additional verifications are required.
You can check real-time updates on the Department of Home Affairs website or through your migration agent.
Once granted, both the main student and subsequent entrants must comply with visa conditions, such as:
Maintaining OSHC coverage
Staying enrolled in a registered course
Respecting work hour limitations
Informing the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in address or relationship status
Failure to comply may affect your visa validity and future applications.
While the process may seem simple, documentation and verification standards can be complex. A qualified education migration consultant in Australia can help you:
Prepare accurate and complete documents
Avoid common pitfalls in GTE or financial requirements
Communicate with the Department on your behalf
Increase the chances of timely approval
The student subsequent entrant visa is not just a visa category — it’s a gateway to family reunion, emotional stability, and shared success. Whether you’re a student longing for family companionship or a dependent hoping to join your loved one abroad, this visa helps bridge that emotional distance.
From understanding the subsequent entrant visa 500 requirements and preparing your checklist to managing fees and processing times, proper planning and professional advice can make your application seamless.
Australia welcomes families who wish to grow together — academically, professionally, and personally. So if you’re planning to reunite, now’s the perfect time to start your student subsequent entrant visa application and experience Australia with those who matter most.
Spouses, de facto partners, and dependent children of current student visa holders can apply under this visa.
On average, between 3 to 6 months, depending on documentation and case complexity.
The base application fee is around AUD 710 for each family member, with extra charges for dependents and health checks.
Key documents include identity proof, relationship evidence, OSHC, proof of funds, and the main student’s enrolment details.
Yes. Spouses or partners can work under certain conditions, and children can attend schools in Australia.
