What is the student visa subclass 500 granted?

If youre planning to study in Australia, youve probably come across the student visa subclass 500. But what exactly does it mean when this visa is granted? What rights do you get? How long can you stay? Can you work part-time or travel freely?

This comprehensive guide will answer all those questions and more. Whether youre a first-time applicant or already in Australia awaiting your visa decision, understanding what follows a student visa subclass 500 grant can help you prepare for success as an international student.

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What is the Student Visa Subclass 500?

The Student Visa Subclass 500 is the main Australian visa for international students enrolled in full-time registered courses. This visa allows overseas students to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of their education.

Quick Facts

• Visa type: Temporary

• Purpose: Study full-time in a registered Australian course

• Stay period: Up to 5 years (in line with course duration)

• Work rights: Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods; unlimited during breaks

• Family inclusion: Can include partner and dependent children

This visa is granted by the Department of Home Affairs, and it activates upon either entry into Australia (if granted offshore) or immediately upon approval (if already in Australia on another valid visa).

What Happens When a Student Visa Subclass 500 is Granted?

1. You Get a Visa Grant Notification Letter

Once your visa is granted, youll receive an official grant letter via ImmiAccount or email. This document is extremely importantit contains:

• Your Visa Grant Number

• Visa conditions (like work limits, course enrolment)

• The expiry date of the visa

• Your entry date (if offshore)

• Any specific obligations, such as maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Tip: Save and print this letterits often requested during enrolment, travel, or even tenancy applications in Australia.

2. Your Visa Conditions Start Immediately

The subclass 500 visa includes mandatory and discretionary visa conditions. When your visa is granted, these come into effect right away.

Key Visa Conditions:

Violating any of these conditions can lead to visa cancellation, so take them seriously.

3. You Can Enter Australia (If Offshore)

If your visa is granted while youre outside Australia, you can enter the country from the date specified in your visa grant letter. You must enter before your course starts, usually at least a few weeks prior.

Once you arrive:

• Go through customs and immigrationwith your visa grant letter and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Arrange your accommodation and transport

• Notify your education provider of your address

If your visa is granted while onshore, it becomes active immediately, overriding your previous visa.

4. You Can Begin Your Course & Access Student Rights

Once your student visa subclass 500 is granted, you can fully participate in life as a student in Australia. This includes:

• Full-time study in the course listed on your CoE

• Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters

• Access public transport concessions, student discounts, and part-time work opportunities

• Switch courses or institutions, with conditions (must notify Department of Home Affairs if within first 6 months)

• Travel freely in and out of Australia, as long as your visa remains valid

Real-Life Example: Maria from the Philippines

Maria applied for the subclass 500 visa in March 2024 to study a Bachelor of Nursing in Sydney. She was offshore at the time, with a course start date of July 2024.

Timeline:

• Application lodged: 12 March 2024

• Visa granted: 15 May 2024

• Entry date: 15 June 2024

• Visa expiry: 30 November 2027

Maria entered Australia in June, enrolled in orientation, and secured a part-time job within her allowed hours. She checks her ImmiAccount regularly for any updates or changes to her visa conditions

Benefits of a Granted Subclass 500 Visa

Work and Study Flexibility

You can work part-time during semesters and full-time during breaksperfect for gaining local experience and supporting yourself financially.

Bring Family Members

You can include your spouse or de facto partner and children in your application or add them later as subsequent entrants.

Extend Your Stay

At the end of your studies, you may qualify for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) or transition to a skilled visa or permanent residency.

Access to Support Services

International students have access to various support services, including mental health, legal aid, and employment resources.

Common Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long does it take for the student visa subclass 500 to be granted?
Processing time varies, but typically between 1 to 3 months, depending on the applications complexity and completeness.

Q2: Can I work full-time while studying?
No. You are allowed to work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. However, you may work full-time during official semester breaks.

Q3: Can I change my course or institution after my visa is granted?
Yes, but if it's within the first 6 months, you must seek permission from your provider and notify Home Affairs.

Q4: Do I need to keep my OSHC insurance after my visa is granted?
Yes. It is a visa requirement (Condition 8501) to maintain valid OSHC for the entire duration of your stay.

Q5: Will I get a visa label in my passport?
No. Australia uses an electronic visa system. All details are stored digitally and accessible via VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online).

Pros and Cons of the Subclass 500 Visa

1. Download the VEVO app to check your visa conditions and expiry at any time.

2. Update your ImmiAccount with any change in address or contact info.

3. Stay enrolled and attend classes regularlyacademic progress is tracked.

4. Maintain OSHC coverage without any gapsits a legal requirement.

5. Respect your work hour limitbreaches are monitored and serious.

Conclusion: Your Journey Begins When the Student Visa Subclass 500 Is Granted

Receiving your student visa subclass 500 granted is more than just a formalityits the green light to start your journey as an international student in Australia. From study rights to work options and family support, this visa opens the door to incredible opportunitiesbut only if you follow the rules.