Australian Student Visa Subclass 500 in 2025: New Rules, Increased Fees and Important Tips for a Successful Application. Learn How to Study, Work and Live in Australia Legally

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Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for international students in 2025, including citizens of Cameroon, Somalia and Algeria. The Subclass 500 visa opens the way to study at leading universities, work legally while studying, and live in one of the most stable countries in the world. But this year, the rules have become stricter and the visa fees are higher. Read on to find out what you need to know to apply successfully and what key changes will affect applicants.

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What is a Subclass 500 student visa?

The Subclass 500 student visa is for international students who plan to study at Australian educational institutions registered with CRICOS (the government register of overseas courses and institutions). This visa allows you to:

- Study in Australia for up to 5 years;

- Travel within and outside the country;

- Work with restrictions during your studies;

- Bring your partner and children with you as dependents.

Types of programs that fall under Subclass 500:

- University programs (bachelor, master, PhD);

- Vocational Education and Training (VET);

- English Language Courses (ELICOS);

- Pathway programs and foundation courses.

Important: Before applying, you must be enrolled in a course and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

How to apply for a student visa?

The visa is issued online through the ImmiAccount portal. Procedure:

Step 1 - Select a course and an institution registered with CRICOS.

Step 2 - Receive a CoE - confirmation of enrolment.

Step 3 – Gather documents: passport, CoE, English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), financial evidence (at least $24,505 AUD/year for living + tuition fees), OSHC health insurance (required), motivation letter (Genuine Temporary Entrant – GTE requirement).

Step 4 – Submit an online application and pay the fee.

Step 5 – Wait for a decision (average 4–8 weeks).

Working in Australia on a student visa in 2025

In 2025, updated work restrictions for international students apply:

1. During the study period:

- Up to 48 hours every two weeks;

- Work before the start of the course is prohibited;

- The restriction applies even during exams or at the start of the semester.

2. During official holidays:

- No restrictions (e.g. during summer break or between semesters).

3. Research students (Masters, PhD):

- No restrictions on the number of working hours if the course has already started.

Can you stay in Australia after your studies?

Yes. After completing your studies, you can apply for a Subclass 485 graduate visa, which allows you to live and work in Australia for a further 2-4 years depending on your level of education.

However, while you are still on a Subclass 500 visa, the 48 hour per fortnight limit continues to apply.

Who else can travel with you on a Subclass 500 visa?

A Subclass 500 student visa allows you to include in your application:

1. Your partner (spouse or de facto partner);

2. Your dependent children.

Your partner’s work rights depend on your level of study:

- If you are studying for a Master’s or PhD, your partner is entitled to work full-time.

- If you are studying for an undergraduate degree, up to 48 hours/2 weeks, as the student.

Other mandatory conditions for a student visa to Australia 2025 (Subclass 500)

To avoid having your visa cancelled, follow these rules:

- Be continuously enrolled in your course;

- Attend classes and demonstrate progress in your studies;

- Have valid OSHC health insurance;

- Only work within the permitted hours;

- Report changes in circumstances (address, institution, family members).

Also in 2025, checks for compliance with the GTE requirement were strengthened - immigration officers carefully study the applicant's motivation and his ties to the country of origin.

New visa fees for a student visa in 2025

From July 1, 2025, the Australian government has increased the cost of applying for a Subclass 500 student visa. Now the main application costs 2000 Australian dollars instead of the previous 1600 AUD.

The fees for additional applicants have also changed:

- If an adult family member (18 years of age or older) is applying with you, an additional 1225 AUD will be required.

- For a minor dependent (under 18 years of age) - 400 AUD.

- If you apply while already in Australia, an additional STAC fee of AUD 700 may apply.

With this increase, Australia has become the country with the highest cost of student visas in the world. This makes it even more important to complete your application correctly the first time to avoid financial losses in case of refusal.

What to do to avoid mistakes when applying for a student visa to Australia 2025 (Subclass 500)?

1. Contact visa consultants.

2. Arrange OSHC health insurance in advance.

3. Check the institution on the CRICOS register.

4. Prepare a strong GTE motivation letter.

Studying in Australia is an exceptional opportunity to get a prestigious education, gain international experience and live in a multicultural environment. However, the Subclass 500 student visa in 2025 requires more preparation than ever: thorough checks, new financial requirements and the highest fees in the world.

For help in obtaining a student visa to Australia - consult with migration lawyers.

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