An Australian student visa offers a number of benefits. You can not only study but also work part-time and live there for a maximum of 5 years. This guide discusses important points of a student visa and the 6 easy steps you have to know while applying for the visa.
Why Do You Need An Australian Student Visa?
If you plan to stay in Australia for up to 3 months, you will need to apply for a Visitor Visa. And if you are eager to study in Australia for 4 months, you may go for a Working Holiday Visa. But, if you want to study in an Australian institute for more than 4 months, you will need the Student Visa 500.
You will get the opportunity to study various Australian courses like vocational education and training or VET, Independent English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students or ELICOS, postgraduate research, and higher education. In addition, international students sponsored by the Department of Foreign Affairs or Defence can also study with this visa.
This visa will also allow you to travel abroad and inside Australia, stay for up to 5 years in the country, and work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours a week.
What Are The Different Types Of Australian Student Visas?
There are generally three types of Australian student visas. Each visa covers different aspects of study in an Australian institute, like taking up some practical training or doing a full-time course.
1. Student Visa Subclass 500: With the Student Visa Subclass 500, you can attend a full-time course in any Australian institute and stay in the country for a maximum of 5 years.
2. Student Guardian Visa 590: If you want to accompany and support a student who has not yet turned 18, you will have to make an application for this visa.
3. Training Visa 407: This visa will allow you to attend workplace-based training and stay in Australia for a maximum of 2 years. You can take part in a classroom-based development training program.
But, if you want to attend a course that will not last more than 4 months, you must apply for a Working Holiday Visa or a Visitor Visa.
The 6-Step Application Process Of Australian Student Visa
The application process of Visa Subclass 500 is pretty straightforward, and you will not have to wait for long for the decision. Still, we recommend that you make preparations and start the application process at least 6 months before the course begins. Here we discuss the 6 steps that you will need to follow for applying for the Visa 500.
1. In the first step, you should open the website of the Department of Home Affairs of the Australian Government. Then, you will have to enter a few required details and note down the list of all the documents you have to submit. You should gather all the necessary documents and also keep copies of each ready.
2. On the website, you have to open an ImmiAccount. Then, you should sign in, complete the application form, and attach the essential documents.
3. Once all the documents are attached and all the necessary information is given, you should double-check the details you have entered. If you find them alright, click on the ‘submit button.
4. In the fourth step, you have to make the payment of AUD 620.
5. Some additional documents may be required, like police certificates, biometrics, and results of health examinations.
6. You have to now wait for the Department’s decision. To check the progress, you will have to use your ImmiAccount.
It is always advised to start with the application procedure at least 6 months before starting the course. However, you should note that the processing time will also depend on the type of course you choose. For example, for postgraduate visas, you may have to wait for 5-8 months. On the other hand, you can get visas for higher education anytime between less than 3 months to 4 months. Once you get the visa in your hand, you should take a copy. You have to keep this when your departure to Australia and during your study and stay in Australia for 5 years.
Though the application procedure is pretty easy, you can help an experienced migration consultant from Perth guide you during applying.
What Are The Documents You Will Need For The Student Visa 500?
You will need to submit several documents for the Visa Subclass 500. But, it will also depend on factors like the country of your passport, the type of education course you plan to study, and the education provider. When you enter these details in the first step of the application, you will get the necessary documents. The documents are as follows.
1. A copy of your passport will be needed. Along with it, you may have to submit copies of your national identity card, birth certificate, and driving license.
2. Whatever university or course you choose, you have to submit the CoE of Confirmation of Enrolment.
3. Health insurance proof will be required.
4. You will need to provide two pieces of evidence of financial capacity – evidence for funds that will cover your living, tuition, and travel costs for one year and proof of annual income of at least AUD 62222.
5. English language proficiency will be required if you are coming from a non-native English-speaking country.
6. You have to give a written statement that you will stay in Australia for a temporary period, including degree certificates, academic transcripts, and an acceptance letter from your university.
This is a general list, and it may expand in particular situations. For example, if you require special needs, or intend to bring your family members, or have not turned 18 while making the application. So, for the specific details, you should always check on the website of the Australian Immigration department.
How Long Can You Stay Back After Your Graduation?
As soon as you complete your graduation, your student visa will expire. But if you have plans to stay back in the country, you have to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485.
If you are an eligible international student, i.e. have completed graduation from an Australian institute, the visa will allow you to stay for a certain period and get sufficient work experience in Australia. Based on your qualification, the period can be from 18 months to 4 years. Ultimately, this work experience will help you get a PR.
Important Update About The Current COVID-19 Restrictions
According to the recent statement issued by the official Australian embassy, students can only apply for an Australian visa after checking the latest updates about the COVID-19 situations and restrictions on their website.
If you are coming from India, the Department will not approve your travel as India is now considered a high-risk COVID-19 country. So, it is always better to check their website frequently and apply only when they allow.
Final Words
Perth is a fantastic city to study and work in. If you need specific information about specific institutes, you can get in touch with the most reputed Immigration Services Perth
