Student Visas
Student Visas
For international students planning to study a registered course in Australia. We assist with initial applications, visa refusals, enrolment changes, condition breaches and transitions to other visa types after completing studies.
Understanding the Student Visa in Australia
Australia is home to world-class universities, vocational colleges and English language providers — and the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the gateway for international students to study full-time at a recognised Australian education institution. It allows you to live, study and work part-time in Australia for the length of your enrolled course.
At Amity Lawyers, we assist students at every stage — whether you are applying for the first time, have encountered a problem with your current visa, or are planning your next steps after completing your studies.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 500 you must:
- Hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered education provider
- Satisfy the Genuine Student (GS) requirement under Ministerial Direction 106
- Demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency
- Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration of your stay in Australia
- Show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependants
- Meet health and character requirements
Financial capacity requirements
Under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF), the level of financial evidence required depends on your country of citizenship and your education provider’s risk rating. As a general guide, you may need to demonstrate funds covering the following:
Expense | Amount (as of 2025) |
Living costs — student | $24,505 per year |
Living costs — partner | $8,574 per year |
Living costs — child | $3,670 per year |
Schooling costs per child | $9,661 per year (unless exempt) |
Travel costs | $2,000 or more depending on location |
Tuition fees | As per CoE — first 12 months or full course if shorter |
How to apply?
- Obtain your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider
- Gather all required supporting documents
- Prepare your Genuine Student statement and supporting evidence
- Submit your application and respond promptly to any requests for further information from the Department
Direction 106 — Genuine Student Requirement
As of 23 March 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement under Ministerial Direction 106.
To satisfy the GS requirement, applicants must demonstrate:
- A genuine intention to study in Australia
- An understanding of the course, provider, and living arrangements
- How the course aligns with their academic or career goals
- That they are not using the visa primarily for migration purposes