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Types of Student Visas in Australia: If you are planning to study in Australia, one of the most important steps is securing the right student visa. 

As a leading destination for international students, Australia offers world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and unparalleled career opportunities. 

However, understanding the types of student visas available and navigating the application process can feel overwhelming. 

Today we will guide you through the types of student visas available in Australia and provide clear, detailed instructions on how to apply for them.

Till the end you will have the information needed to take this important step toward achieving your academic and professional goals.

Types of Student Visas in Australia in 2025

Different visas cater to varying educational levels and circumstances, so choosing the right one is crucial to ensure a smooth transition to your academic journey in Australia. 

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

This is the most common visa for international students. It allows you to study full-time in Australia at an educational institution recognized by the Australian government.

The visa also permits part-time work for up to 48 hours every two weeks during academic sessions and full-time work during scheduled breaks.

2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

This visa is designed for guardians of international students under the age of 18 who are studying in Australia. 

It allows you to stay in the country and support the student, ensuring they have the necessary care and supervision during their studies.

3. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Although not strictly a student visa, this visa is an option for students who have recently completed their studies in Australia.

It allows graduates to stay temporarily and gain work experience, which can be beneficial for further career or residency pathways.

4. Training Visa (Subclass 407)

This visa is for individuals looking to complete structured training or professional development in Australia.

It is often suitable for those undertaking workplace-based training or a professional development program.

How to Apply for a Student Visa in Australia?

Choose Your Course and Institution – Select an educational institution and course that aligns with your goals. 

Ensure the institution is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). 

You will need an offer letter and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to proceed with the visa application.

Check Visa Requirements – Review the eligibility criteria for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) or any other relevant visa. 

This typically includes proof of enrollment, sufficient financial resources, English language proficiency, and health insurance coverage.

Prepare the Necessary Documents – Gather all required documents, including:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Passport (valid for the duration of your intended stay)
• Evidence of sufficient funds
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Genuine Student (GS) statement
• Academic transcripts and certificates

Create an ImmiAccount – Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount. 

This account will be your primary platform for submitting the visa application and tracking its status.

Complete the Online Application – Log into your ImmiAccount and fill out the application form. Provide accurate information and upload all required documents. 

Double-check your details to avoid errors that could delay processing.

Pay the Visa Fee – Pay the visa application fee through the ImmiAccount. The cost varies depending on the visa type and your circumstances.

Submit Biometrics and Medical Examination – You may be required to provide biometrics and undergo a medical examination with an approved provider. 

Follow the instructions provided after submitting your application.

Track and Wait for a Decision – Monitor the status of your application through the ImmiAccount. 

Processing times vary, so ensure you apply well in advance of your intended start date.

Each visa category, whether the Student Visa (Subclass 500), the Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590), or the Training Visa (Subclass 407), caters to specific circumstances and goals. 

Choosing the right visa ensures a smooth entry into Australia and helps you fulfill your educational or professional aspirations.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most common visa for international students planning to study in Australia. 

It allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a limited period afterward to prepare for your next steps. 

With this visa, you can enroll in a range of full-time study programs, including higher education, vocational training, secondary school, or English language courses. 

This visa also permits part-time work during academic terms and full-time work during scheduled breaks, enabling you to gain valuable work experience and support your living expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this visa, you need to:

• Be accepted into a registered course with a CRICOS-approved institution.
• Demonstrate genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes (Genuine Temporary Entrant or GTE requirement).
• Meet financial requirements to cover tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
• Prove your English language proficiency through recognized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
• Obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.

Features of Subclass 500

• Work Rights – You can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during the term and full-time during breaks.
• Family Inclusion – Eligible family members, such as a spouse or dependent children, can accompany you on this visa.
• Duration – The visa duration aligns with your course length, typically including an additional few months for transitioning after course completion.

How to Apply

The application process includes obtaining a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your institution, preparing required documents, and applying online through your ImmiAccount. 

Ensuring compliance with all requirements enhances your chances of a successful application.

Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) is specifically designed for parents, legal guardians, or relatives of international students under 18 years of age studying in Australia.

It provides an opportunity for guardians to stay in Australia and support their dependent students, ensuring they have a safe and supervised environment during their education.

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible to apply if:

• You are the parent, legal guardian, or relative (defined as a sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, or grandparent) of a student holding a Subclass 500 visa.
• The student is under 18 years of age or requires care due to exceptional circumstances.
• You have sufficient financial capacity to support yourself and the student during your stay.
• You meet health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Features of Subclass 590

• Stay Duration – The visa duration aligns with the student’s visa or their 18th birthday, whichever comes first.
• Work Limitations – This visa does not permit work, as its primary purpose is caregiving.
• Single Entry – The visa holder must maintain care responsibilities and typically cannot leave Australia without making alternative arrangements for the student’s care.

How to Apply

The process involves demonstrating your caregiving role, providing proof of financial capacity, and meeting health insurance requirements. 

You must lodge your application online through the ImmiAccount portal and pay the applicable fees.

Training Visa (Subclass 407)

The Training Visa (Subclass 407) is designed for individuals who wish to undertake professional training, skill development, or structured workplace-based programs in Australia. 

It is ideal for those aiming to enhance their career prospects or gain expertise in specific occupational fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, you need to:

• Be nominated by an approved sponsor.
• Be invited to participate in occupational training activities related to your field of expertise.
• Meet English language proficiency and health insurance requirements.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to support yourself during your stay.

Features of Subclass 407

• Purpose – This visa facilitates structured training in Australian workplaces, particularly for those in specialized industries or professions.
• Duration – The visa is typically granted for up to two years, depending on the training program and nomination details.
• Flexibility – Visa holders can include family members in their application, allowing them to accompany you to Australia.

How to Apply

Your application requires a nomination by an approved sponsor and detailed information about the training program. 

You must provide proof of financial support, health insurance coverage, and evidence of your professional or educational background to qualify. 

Applications are submitted online via ImmiAccount, accompanied by the necessary fees.

Conclusion

Securing a student visa in Australia is a pivotal step in realizing your educational aspirations in one of the world’s most sought-after study destinations. 

Understanding the different types of student visas ensures that you select the one that suits your specific needs and circumstances. 

The application process, while detailed, becomes manageable with proper preparation and adherence to the guidelines.

Approaching the process with clarity and organization will help you avoid unnecessary complications. 

From selecting the right course and institution to gathering the necessary documentation and completing the application, every step brings you closer to the transformative experience of studying in Australia. 

With determination and the right resources, you will find yourself on a rewarding path that combines academic growth, cultural enrichment, and opportunities to achieve your future goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many types of student visas are there in Australia?

There are primarily three main types of student visas in Australia: Student Visa (Subclass 500), Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590), and Training Visa (Subclass 407).

2. What is subclass 600 visa Australia?

Subclass 600 is a Temporary Activity Visa that allows individuals to visit Australia for various purposes, including tourism, business, and short-term study. It’s not specifically a student visa but can be used for short-term study programs.

3. What is the difference between visa 500 and 485?

Visa 500 is a Student Visa that allows international students to study in Australia. Visa 485, on the other hand, is a Temporary Graduate Visa that allows recent graduates to work in Australia for a specific period.

4. Which visa is best for Australia?

The best visa for you depends on your specific circumstances, such as your course duration, age, and future plans. For most international students, the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most suitable option.

5. What are level 2 colleges in Australia?

Australia doesn’t have a specific “level 2” college categorization. However, there are various types of educational institutions, including universities, TAFE colleges, and private colleges. The level of education and the specific course you choose will determine the appropriate visa.

6. What type of visa is qualifying for students?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the primary visa that qualifies international students to study in Australia. It allows students to study at various educational institutions, including universities, TAFE colleges, and private colleges.