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Student Visa Subclass 500

Your complete guide to securing your Australian Student Visa.

NN
Nilesh Nandan
Immigration Lawyer · BBus(Accy) LLB MBA · Last updated March 2026
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Overview

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is your gateway to studying in Australia. It allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, which can be up to five years. As an experienced immigration lawyer, I will guide you through the entire application process, from ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria to preparing and lodging a decision-ready application. My goal is to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.

Applying for a student visa can be a complex process. You need to be enrolled in a course of study in Australia, have adequate health insurance, and meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. The GS requirement replaced the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement on 23 March 2024. It is a comprehensive assessment of your personal circumstances, immigration history, and your reasons for choosing to study in Australia. I will work with you to prepare a compelling GS statement that clearly demonstrates your genuine intention to study in Australia.

Common pitfalls in student visa applications include failing to provide sufficient evidence of your financial capacity, not meeting the English language requirements, and submitting an incomplete application. I will meticulously review your application to ensure all requirements are met, minimizing the risk of delays or a refusal. I will also advise you on the conditions of your visa, including your work rights and obligations while studying in Australia.

Key Facts

Visa DurationUp to 5 years, depending on the length of your course.
Application FeeFrom AUD710 (verify on Home Affairs website).
Processing TimeVaries (verify on Home Affairs website).
Work RightsUp to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.

How I Work — Step by Step

1

Initial Consultation

We will discuss your study goals and assess your eligibility for the student visa. I will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the application process and the required documentation.

2

Document Preparation

I will assist you in gathering all the necessary documents, including your CoE, financial evidence, and health insurance. I will also guide you in writing a compelling Genuine Student statement.

3

Application Lodgement

I will prepare and lodge your application with the Department of Home Affairs. I will ensure that your application is complete and decision-ready to minimize processing times.

4

Visa Grant and Post-Arrival Advice

Once your visa is granted, I will advise you on your visa conditions and provide you with information about living and studying in Australia. I will also be available to assist you with any future visa needs.

What I Do

  • Assess your eligibility for the Student Visa (Subclass 500).
  • Assist you in gathering the required documentation, including your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
  • Guide you in preparing a strong Genuine Student (GS) statement.
  • Prepare and lodge your student visa application.
  • Liaise with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.
  • Advise you on your visa conditions, including work rights and study obligations.
  • Assist with student visa extensions and post-study work visa options.

Who Is This For?

  • Individuals who have been accepted into a full-time course of study at a CRICOS-registered institution in Australia.
  • Students who need to extend their current student visa.
  • Family members of a student visa holder who wish to join them in Australia.
  • Students who have had a previous visa application refused and need expert assistance.

Common questions about

What is the Genuine Student (GS) requirement?+
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement is a new integrity measure that assesses whether you genuinely intend to study in Australia. It considers your personal circumstances, immigration history, and your reasons for choosing your course and education provider. I will help you prepare a detailed statement to address these requirements.
Can I work while studying in Australia?+
Yes, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. It is important to comply with these work conditions to maintain your visa status.
What happens if my student visa is refused?+
If your student visa is refused, you may have the right to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). I can represent you at the AAT and prepare a strong case for a positive outcome.
Can I bring my family with me on a student visa?+
Yes, you may be able to include your partner and dependent children in your student visa application. They will also have work and study rights in Australia. I can advise you on the requirements for including your family members.

Your Visa Was Refused — What Now?

I wrote a free guide covering the 5 most common refusal reasons, your appeal options, and the deadlines you cannot miss. It is the same advice I give clients in their first meeting.

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The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Thoughts only — not legal advice.

Important: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law in Australia is complex, fact-specific, and subject to frequent change under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), the Migration Regulations 1994, and departmental policy. You must seek independent, qualified legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any immigration decision or taking any action. Viewing this website does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Terms of Use | Full Disclaimer

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Migration Institute of Australia
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LS
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Australian Asian Lawyers Association
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Professional Standards Scheme

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRYI acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we operate, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to elders past, present, and emerging, recognising their enduring connection to the land, waters, and culture.

© 2026 MyVisa — Nilesh Nandan Immigration Law Advisory. All rights reserved.· A MyVisa brand

MyVisa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 65 092 524 359 (service entity for MyVisa Lawyers Pty Ltd ABN 54 607 960 547). Nilesh Nandan is an admitted solicitor and Australian legal practitioner admitted to the High Court of Australia, authorised to provide immigration assistance under the Migration Act 1958. As a legal practitioner regulated by the New South Wales Law Society, Nilesh is not required to be registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA). Nilesh Nandan BBus(Accy), LLB, MBA, MMIA — Head of Practice. Member: Law Council of Australia · Migration Institute of Australia (MMIA) · MIA Character & Cancellation Advisory Board · MIA Disciplinary Committee 2026 · New South Wales Law Society · Australian Asian Lawyers Association · Ku-ring-gai Chamber of Commerce. *Based on publicly available Google reviews. No other individual immigration lawyer in Australia has more reviews, across more locations, sustained over a longer period, with a comparable satisfaction rating.

Liability is limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. The content on this website is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to be relied upon as, and should not be taken as, a substitute for specific legal advice relevant to your individual circumstances. Immigration law is complex and subject to frequent change; the information on this site may not reflect the most current legal developments and may not apply to your situation. You should seek independent, qualified legal advice before making any immigration decision or taking any action based on the content of this website. Viewing this website, using the tools provided, or contacting our office does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Parts of this website are enhanced through the use of artificial intelligence; despite best endeavours, AI-assisted content may not be suitable for your specific immigrati MyVisa® is a registered trademark used under licence. MyStudentVisa is not affiliated with the Department of Home Affairs or any government agency. MyStudentVisa is a specialist brand of MyVisa Australia Pty Ltd.

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