Planning to study in Australia? The Student Visa Subclass 500 is your gateway to experiencing world-class education, vibrant multicultural life, and exciting work opportunities in one of the top study destinations globally. Whether you are an international student applying for the first time or a parent helping your child through the process, understanding the student visa subclass 500 is crucial. In this blog, we will cover the student visa 500 application process, essential 500 student visa conditions, 500 student visa working hours, eligibility, documentation, and more. So, let’s dive into everything you need to know about the student subclass 500 work rights and responsibilities.
The Student Visa Subclass 500 is the most common visa option for international students planning to pursue education in Australia. This visa allows you to live in Australia while undertaking a full-time course at a recognized educational institution. With a validity of up to five years, the visa duration is usually aligned with the length of your academic program and includes a buffer period before and after the course ends.
The student visa subclass 500 is designed to support Australia’s reputation as a global education hub by giving international students access to world-class education and vibrant cultural experiences. As a student, you're not just limited to study — you also gain the opportunity to work part-time, travel within the country, and apply for post-study work visas upon graduation.
Study Eligibility: Allows enrollment in a full-time course registered with CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
Work Rights: Permits part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight) during study periods and unlimited work during official breaks.
Visa Flexibility: Can be applied for from within or outside Australia.
Family Inclusion: Enables dependants such as partners or children to be included in the application.
Post-Study Options: Provides a pathway to further temporary or permanent visas such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
The visa is granted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and comes with various 500 student visa conditions that you must follow to ensure continued compliance. These include maintaining enrollment in a registered course, not working beyond allowed hours, and ensuring adequate health insurance coverage.
From undergraduate degrees and vocational training to English language courses and postgraduate research, the student visa 500 covers a wide range of study opportunities. Whether you're coming to Australia to improve your qualifications or build a long-term future, the student subclass 500 is your first step toward achieving that goal.
To successfully apply for the student visa subclass 500, applicants must meet a series of well-defined eligibility criteria set by the Australian Government. These requirements ensure that only genuine, capable, and well-prepared students are granted a visa to study in Australia. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key eligibility factors that every prospective student should be aware of before applying for the student visa 500.
You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian education provider for a course registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Applicants need to prove that they are genuinely seeking temporary stay in Australia for study purposes only. The GTE requirement considers your circumstances, immigration history, and ties to your home country.
You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees, travel, and living expenses while in Australia. This may include bank statements, income tax returns, or proof of sponsorship.
All applicants must meet specific health standards and may be required to undergo a medical examination. Additionally, you’ll need to provide a police clearance certificate or background check to meet character requirements.
Holding an approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy for the duration of your stay in Australia is mandatory. It ensures access to essential health services.
Unless exempt, you must provide evidence of your English language skills by taking approved tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Different institutions and courses may have specific score requirements.
These eligibility requirements are fundamental to your visa success. Make sure to review each point carefully and consult a migration professional if you're unsure about your qualifications.
Before applying, you need a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an approved institution.
Collect essential documents, such as:
CoE
Passport
Academic transcripts
English language test scores
OSHC proof
Statement of purpose (GTE)
Financial documents
You need to create an online account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Complete and submit your visa application via ImmiAccount. Ensure you pay the visa application fee.
Attend your scheduled medical examination and provide biometrics if required.
Once all documents are submitted, await the decision.
The 500 student visa processing time varies depending on individual circumstances, but it typically ranges from 4 to 12 weeks.
When granted the student visa subclass 500, several visa conditions are attached to ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws and regulations. These conditions are designed to help maintain the integrity of the Australian education system, protect students’ welfare, and ensure they remain committed to their academic responsibilities while enjoying the benefits of living and studying in Australia.
Condition 8202: Maintain enrolment in a registered course and ensure satisfactory course attendance and progress.
Condition 8501: Maintain adequate health insurance (OSHC) throughout your stay in Australia.
Condition 8516: Continue to meet the visa grant requirements. A change in your circumstances must not breach any visa terms.
Condition 8517: You must maintain arrangements for the education of any school-age dependants.
Condition 8533: Inform your education provider of your residential address within 7 days of arriving in Australia or changing your address.
Following these student 500 visa conditions is essential to avoid cancellation or future visa issues. Breaching these obligations can lead to visa revocation, affect your ability to apply for other Australian visas, and impact your immigration record.
It is your responsibility to understand these conditions thoroughly. Always stay in close contact with your education provider and seek help if you are unsure about any specific visa condition.
One of the biggest advantages of holding the student visa subclass 500 is the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience while studying in Australia. However, it's important for students and their families to understand the legal boundaries and expectations regarding 500 student visa working hours to avoid breaching visa conditions.
As of 2025, the rules are:
During Study Period: Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (fortnight means a two-week period).
During Official Holidays or Breaks: You are allowed to work unlimited hours, giving you a chance to earn extra money or explore full-time roles.
This flexibility makes it easier for international students to manage living costs and even save for travel or emergencies.
If you include family members in your visa, such as your spouse or de facto partner, they may also have limited work rights. Generally:
Spouses of undergraduate students can work 48 hours per fortnight.
If the main applicant is studying a master's or PhD, the spouse can work full-time with no restrictions.
Many new students assume they can begin working as soon as they arrive in Australia. However, your work rights begin only after your course officially starts. Working before that could result in a breach of visa conditions.
Paid employment must comply with Australian workplace laws, including minimum wage and fair working hours.
Unpaid work such as volunteering or internships is allowed, especially if it’s part of your course requirement or training.
Exceeding work limits: Working more than 48 hours per fortnight during study terms is a common mistake and can lead to visa cancellation.
Incorrect reporting: Failing to maintain accurate records or being dishonest about your work can raise red flags.
Working during the non-permitted period: As mentioned, working before your course starts is a breach of the visa.
Use time-tracking apps or spreadsheets to monitor your work hours.
Inform your employer about your visa limitations.
Schedule shifts wisely during your breaks to make the most of unlimited work rights.
Understanding and respecting your student subclass 500 work rights not only helps you avoid visa problems but also enhances your experience as an international student. By carefully balancing study and work, you’ll be in a better position to succeed academically and professionally.
The base application charge for the student visa 500 is around AUD 710. Additional fees may apply for dependants.
The visa duration is usually the length of your course plus 2 months (or 3 months for courses longer than 10 months).
Yes! With your student visa subclass 500, you can include eligible family members such as:
Your spouse or de facto partner
Your or your partner’s dependent child
They can live with you and may also work or study based on certain conditions.
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for:
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Skilled migration pathways
Employer-sponsored opportunities
You may also consider applying for a permanent residency pathway, depending on your course and occupation.
For tailored guidance, working with a migration agent Australia can simplify your next steps.
Monitor Work Hours: Use a tracker to stay within the 500 student visa working hours.
Keep Health Cover Active: Do not let your OSHC policy lapse.
Attend Classes Regularly: Low attendance can lead to visa warnings or cancellation.
Update Address: Inform your institution within 7 days of moving.
Follow Course Progression Rules: Do not drop courses without permission.
Access to top-ranked Australian institutions
Part-time work opportunities
Exposure to global culture
Possibility of bringing family
Potential pathway to permanent residency
Whether you're applying for the Australia student visa for the first time or transitioning from another visa, the student visa subclass 500 offers a world of opportunities.
Processing times typically range between 4 to 12 weeks but can vary depending on your personal circumstances.
You can only work full-time during official course breaks. During study sessions, the limit is 48 hours per fortnight.
Violations such as excessive work hours, dropping courses, or not maintaining OSHC may lead to visa cancellation.
Yes, if you enroll in a new course or need more time to complete your current program, you can apply for an extension.
Yes, partners can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. If the primary applicant is studying a master’s or PhD, the partner may work full-time.
The student visa subclass 500 opens the door to not only quality education but also meaningful work experience in Australia. Understanding and complying with the 500 student visa conditions and making the most of your student 500 visa work hours will ensure a smooth and successful journey.
Whether you're aiming for academic success or building a pathway toward permanent residency, this visa provides a solid foundation.
Stay informed, stay compliant, and make the most of your Australian journey!
