Australian Studying and training visas
Australia provides various visa options for those seeking to study, train, or develop their skills in the country. Below is a summary of the primary Australian visas for studying and training:
### 1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)
This visa enables international students to reside in Australia and pursue full-time studies in a registered course offered by an Australian educational institution.
#### Key Details:
- Eligibility: Must be enrolled in a course listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
- Duration: Valid for the duration of the course, up to a maximum of 5 years.
- Work Rights: Permits part-time work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term-time and unrestricted hours during course breaks.
- Dependents: Eligible family members, such as a spouse/partner and dependent children, can accompany you.
- Health Insurance: Requires Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- English Proficiency: Proof of English language skills may be required.
### 2. Training Visa (Subclass 407)
This visa is designed for individuals who aim to enhance their professional skills through workplace-based training aligned with their job, field of study, or area of expertise.
#### Key Details:
- Eligibility:
- Must be sponsored by an approved temporary activities sponsor.
- Training must directly relate to your current occupation or studies.
- Duration: Valid for up to 2 years.
- Work Rights: Restricted to work specified within the training program outlined in your visa.
- Health Insurance: Adequate health insurance coverage is mandatory in Australia.
### 3. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
This visa allows a parent, legal guardian, or close relative of an international student under 18 years old to stay in Australia to provide necessary care and support.
#### Key Details:
- Eligibility: Must be the student’s parent, legal guardian, or an eligible relative.
- Duration: Generally matches the length of the student’s visa.
- Work Rights: No work rights are granted under this visa.
- Health Insurance: Proof of adequate health insurance is required.
### 4. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This visa caters to recent graduates of Australian institutions who wish to temporarily live, work, or study in Australia.
#### Key Details:
- Eligibility: Completion of a CRICOS-registered course involving at least 2 years of study in Australia.
- Streams:
- Graduate Work Stream: Suitable for graduates with skills tied to an occupation listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. Valid for 18 months.
- Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates with a higher education degree. Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification.
- Work Rights: Provides full work rights.
- Health Insurance: Requires appropriate health insurance coverage while in Australia.
### 5. Additional Relevant Visas
- Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): Ideal for short-term study, lasting up to 3 months.
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462): Allows study for up to 4 months while working and exploring Australia.
### General Criteria for Study and Training Visas:
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): Applicants must demonstrate they intend to stay in Australia only temporarily for study or training purposes.
- Financial Requirements: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel expenses must be provided.
- English Proficiency: Applicants may need to present results of language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
- Health and Character Standards: Applicants must meet the required health and character criteria.
### Important Considerations:
- Visa conditions, fees, and eligibility criteria may change at any time.
- Processing times vary depending on the visa type and the number of applications.
If you’re unsure which visa is most suitable for your situation, consulting a registered migration agent is highly recommended.