Student & Guardian Visas

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Purpose: For international students to study full-time at an Australian educational institution (school, vocational college, university, or English language course).

Key Features:

· Who Can Apply:

    o Students aged 6+ (for schools) or 18+ (for higher education).

    o All study levels: primary, secondary, vocational, undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD.

· Requirements:

    o Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Issued by an Australian institution registered with CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).

    o Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): Prove your intention to study temporarily and return home after completing studies (via a written statement).

    o Financial Capacity: Show proof of funds to cover:

Tuition fees.

Living costs.

Travel expenses.

    o English Proficiency: Test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if required by your course.

    o Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa duration.

    o Health & Character Checks: Medical exams and police clearance certificates.

· Work Rights:

    o Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.

    o Unlimited work hours during course breaks.

· Visa Duration:

    o Matches the length of your course (e.g., 3 years for a bachelor’s degree).

    o Additional time may be granted for course preparation or post-study travel.

2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

· Purpose: Allow a parent/guardian to accompany a student under 18.

· Eligibility:

    o Must be a parent, legal guardian, or relative over 21.

    o Only one guardian per student (exceptions rare).

· Key Requirements:

    o Financial proof: For living costs.

    o Health insurance: OSHC for the student + private insurance for the guardian.

    o No dependents: Cannot bring children aged 6+ (exceptions for under-6s).

· Work Rights: Generally not permitted (exceptions for hardship).

· Duration: Matches the student’s visa or until the student turns 18.