Understanding Australian study visa requirements is something all international students will need to tackle in order to plan for your studies in Queensland. Whether you're coming to pursue a degree, get work experience, or explore the beautiful surroundings, understanding your Australian student visa options will help make the process much smoother.
Do I need a visa to enter Queensland?
Yes, international students and visitors need a visa to enter Queensland, Australia. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of your visit, such as studying, working or just travelling.
For students, the most common visa is the Student Visa (subclass 500), which allows you to stay in Australia for the length of your studies. Other Australian student visas include the Temporary Graduate Visa, Training Visa and the Working Holiday Maker Visas. You’ll need to do your research on the student visa application process and apply for the correct visa to avoid any issues during your stay.
Explore your visa options
As an international student, there are several visa options available to you. Here’s a closer look at the main types of visas:
Student Visa
The Student Visa (subclass 500) is the main visa for international students who want to study full-time in Australia. This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the entirety of your course and includes provisions for part-time work. To apply for a new student visa, you’ll need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian education provider, meet English language requirements and demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
Temporary Graduate
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution. This visa lets you continue to live, work and study in Australia temporarily after you finish your studies. It’s a way for you to gain practical work experience and boost your career prospects while in the country.
Training Visa
The Training Visa (subclass 407) lets you undertake occupational training or complete professional development activities in Australia. This Australia student visa is perfect for those who want to improve their skills in their current occupation, field of expertise or area of tertiary study. Applicants must be sponsored by an approved organisation and meet specific training requirements outlined by the Australian government.
Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Visas
The Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program includes two visa subclasses, the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa. Both visas allow young people from eligible countries to work and holiday in Australia for up to a year. They are great if you want to explore the country while earning money to support your travels.
Meeting the Australian study visa requirements
When completing an Australia student visa application, you will need to meet several requirements. In addition to having a CoE from an accredited education provider, you will also need to be proficient in the English language proficiency (and have evidence to back it up, usually demonstrated through tests like IELTS or TOEFL).
You will also need to show proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover your tuition fees, living expenses and travel costs. Health insurance, known as OSHC, is also a must.
How to check your Australian visa status
As a visa holder, you can check your current visa details and conditions using the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. VEVO is a place where you can view your visa status, including the visa type, expiry date and any conditions attached to the visa.
Make sure you regularly check on your visa details to confirm compliance with the conditions and avoid any potential issues. VEVO does not provide information on previous visas or new student visa applications under assessment.
How to apply for a visa
Applying for a visa to study in Queensland involves a few key steps:
- Choose the appropriate visa type based on your study plans. Gather all necessary documents, such as your CoE, passport, English language test results and financial statements.
- Complete the online visa application form on the Department of Home Affairs website and pay the application fee. Make sure that you carefully review all the required supporting documentation and attach everything you need for your application, any missing documentation or information can delay your application's processing time.
- After submission, monitor your application status and be prepared for any additional requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
Preparing for your travels to Queensland
Once you have your CoE and student visa, the next step is to start planning your travels to Australia. Arrange OSHC and explore a few different accommodation options for your stay. Use a cost of living calculator to budget for your expenses, including accommodation, food, transport and entertainment.
Familiarise yourself with the support services available for international students to ensure a safe and enjoyable time in Queensland. You can visit our pages on Student Accommodation, Safety and Support, and other essential resources to help you prepare for your exciting new life