Subclass 500 Student visa
International students enrolled full-time in a registered (CRICOS) Australian course.
The Student visa (subclass 500) is an Australian student & graduate visa. This guide covers who the 500 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$2,000) and processing time (~1-3 months (median ~29 days)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 500 visa is for
International students enrolled full-time in a registered (CRICOS) Australian course.
No (temporary). Pathway via the Graduate (485) visa, then skilled or employer-sponsored routes to PR.
Subclass 500 eligibility criteria
- A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) in a CRICOS-registered course
- Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement
- English proficiency as required by your provider
- Sufficient funds for fees, travel and living costs
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Meet health and character requirements
Subclass 500 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Student visa (subclass 500) is ~$2,000, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months (median ~29 days). Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | Duration of your course (up to ~5 years) |
| Work rights | Up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying; unlimited during scheduled breaks |
| Study rights | Yes - your enrolled course |
| Government charge | ~$2,000 |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months (median ~29 days) |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary). Pathway via the Graduate (485) visa, then skilled or employer-sponsored routes to PR. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary). Pathway via the Graduate (485) visa, then skilled or employer-sponsored routes to PR.
Many applicants also compare the 485 (Temporary Graduate visa), the 590 (Student Guardian visa), the 189 (Skilled Independent visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 500 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 500 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 500 visa cost?
The Student visa (subclass 500) base application charge is ~$2,000. Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 500 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months (median ~29 days). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 500 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary). Pathway via the Graduate (485) visa, then skilled or employer-sponsored routes to PR.
Can I work on the subclass 500 visa?
Work rights on the Student visa (subclass 500): Up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying; unlimited during scheduled breaks.
Who can apply for the 500 visa?
International students enrolled full-time in a registered (CRICOS) Australian course.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority