1. Subclass 500 (Student Visa) – Study in Australia
2. Subclass 590 (Student Guardian Visa) – Visa for Parents & Guardians of Student Visa Holders
This page is general information only and is current as at the date shown in the page schema. Visa criteria, charges and conditions change; figures above were checked against the Department of Home Affairs. Complex cases need personal advice from a registered migration agent.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Australian student visa cost?
The subclass 500 Student visa base application charge starts from AUD2,500, as published by the Department of Home Affairs on 1 July 2026. Concessions apply in limited circumstances, including for eligible Pacific Island, Timor-Leste and ASEAN citizens and for ELICOS and Non-Award applicants. Family members included in the application attract additional charges, and health cover, biometrics and English testing are separate costs.
How long can I stay in Australia on a student visa?
A subclass 500 Student visa can be granted for up to six years and is aligned to the length of your enrolment. The exact period granted depends on the course you are enrolled in and your circumstances, so a shorter course generally produces a shorter visa. If you extend your studies you will usually need to apply for a further visa.
Can I work on a student visa in Australia?
Yes. A subclass 500 Student visa permits you to work up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course of study or training is in session, under the conditions published by the Department of Home Affairs. Different arrangements can apply outside session periods and for some postgraduate research students. Breaching a work condition can put your visa at risk.
What do I need before I can apply for a student visa?
You must be enrolled in a course in Australia and hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment when the Department decides your visa, hold Overseas Student Health Cover unless you fall within an exemption, and be at least six years old. Applicants under 18 must show an approved welfare arrangement. Applications are lodged online, in or outside Australia.
Do my parents need a visa to come with me while I study?
A parent or guardian caring for a student visa holder under 18 generally applies for the subclass 590 Student Guardian visa rather than a visitor visa. The Student Guardian visa has its own financial capacity, health cover and accommodation requirements. Whether it is the right option depends on the student’s age and the care arrangements in place.
Does a student visa lead to permanent residence in Australia?
A Student visa is a temporary visa and does not itself grant permanent residence. Some graduates go on to become eligible to apply for skilled, employer-sponsored or partner visas, but eligibility depends on occupation, skills assessment, English, age and points, and the settings change over time. Any pathway should be planned against the criteria that apply when you are ready to lodge.
Related pages
Subclass 500 Student visa · Subclass 590 Student Guardian visa · Employer-sponsored visas · Permanent residence pathways · Book a consultation