Unless you are a citizen of New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, Canada or the United States of America, you may need to achieve a certain minimum level of English language proficiency to be eligible for a Student visa.

Applicants for a Student visa also have to show that they meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement. A statement is to be written by the applicant speaking to his or her intention to stay in Australia temporarily, supported by documentation evidencing the stated claims or the applicant’s incentive to return overseas.

In assessing the application for a Student visa, the Department of Home Affairs will consider the applicant’s circumstances and immigration history, the intentions of a parent, legal guardian or spouse if the applicant is a minor, as well as any other relevant matter.

Primary visa holders can generally work 40 hours work per fortnight (or biweekly) while their course is in session. When the course is not in session they may work unlimited hours. Students who have commenced a doctorate course, or a master by research program, may work unlimited hours after they begin their postgraduate research course.

Once the primary student has commenced their course of study in Australia, family members may undertake 40 hours of work a fortnight. Family members of students who have commenced a master by research or coursework, or a doctorate degree, may be permitted to work unrestricted hours. Other benefits of holding a Student visa is that you may travel outside of Australia and return to Australia as many times as you wish while the visa is valid.