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Australia Student Visa Guide for Indians

A complete guide for Indian students on how to apply for an Australia student visa, covering visa types, eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, fees, and health cover requirements.

  • 09 May 2025
  • 6 min read
  • 1 views

Australia is widely recognised as a top choice for Indian students looking to pursue higher education. It offers world-class institutions, a diverse cultural experience and excellent career opportunities. If you're planning to study in Australia, understanding the visa application process is crucial to ensuring a smooth journey.

This blog provides all the necessary details you need to know before applying for a student visa.

Types of student visa for Australia

There are three types of student visas that you can apply for in Australia.

Subclass 500

This is the main type of Visa for all international students looking to study full-time in Australia. It is also the best option for people looking for a student visa Australia working rights.

  • It is valid for up to 5 years.
  • Subclass 500 Visa allows students to work part-time.
  • A student must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course.
  • It covers primary, secondary, higher education, English language courses (ELICOS), vocational education and postgraduate research.

Subclass 590

Subclass 590 Visas, or Student Guardian Visas, are meant for guardians of international students in Australia under the age of 18.

  • It allows a parent or a legal guardian to reside in Australia as a student's guardian.
  • This Visa does not allow the guardian to work.
  • With this Visa, a guardian can stay in Australia for the whole duration of the student's course.

Subclass 407

The Subclass 407 Visa is for people looking to join workplace-based training in Australia to improve their skills.

  • It is valid for up to 2 years.
  • It is for occupational training and professional development.
  • Subclass 407 Visa requires sponsorship by an approved temporary activities sponsor.

What is the eligibility criteria for Australia study visa?

To be eligible for a Subclass 500 Visa to study in Australia, you should meet the following requirements.

  • Provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to show you are enrolled in a course of study.
  • Meet the required minimum English language requirements for studying in Australia.
  • Show that you can cover the expenses for your course and support yourself financially.
  • Have health insurance coverage for the whole duration of your stay.
  • Pass the evaluation tests to determine that you are of noble character and good health.
  • Agree to sign a document stating that you will abide by and respect the Australian laws and lifestyle.

How to apply for Australia student visa?

Here are the essential steps you need to apply for australia student visa:

  • Enrol in a CRICOS-Registered Course and receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
  • Gather all the required documents, like a passport, CoE, English proficiency test results, etc.
  • Visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and create an ImmiAccount, so that you can submit and track your visa application from there.
  • Submit your Visa application
  • Undergo health and biometrics checks

Documents required for Australia student visa application

You need the following documents to apply for a study visa for Australia from India:

  • Proof of enrolment (your electronic confirmation of enrolment eCOE)
  • Original and a copy of your valid passport
  • Your visa application fee
  • Proof that you meet the Genuine Student Criteria
  • Academic and work experience documents
  • English proficiency test results, such as IELTS
  • Evidence of financial ability
  • Details of your health insurance policy (OSHC)
  • Passport-sized photographs

When to apply for student study visa for Australia?

You should apply for your Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) at least 6-8 weeks before the commencement of your course. Generally, it takes about 4-6 weeks to process the Visa, but it often varies depending on the country from which the student is coming and his or her circumstances.  

Australia student visa processing time

The processing time for an Australian Student Visa differs for each applicant. You can visit the website of the Department of Home Affairs, where you can find additional details about the process. You can also learn how to speed up the processing time after applying for Australia student visa.

What are the Australia study visa application fees?

Fees for Australia visa for Indian students start at AUD 1600 per application, unless exempt.

Role of travel insurance for Australia student visa

If you are applying for a student study visa Australia, you need to get Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and not a regular travel insurance policy. This travel insurance for Australia will cover all your doctor's bills, ambulance services, hospital treatment and prescription drug costs. You can also stay protected from situations involving lost baggage or passports, non-medical emergencies, flight delays and cancellations and natural calamities.

FAQs

  1. How long is a Subclass 500 Visa valid for?

It is usually valid for up to 5 years.

  1. Can I have a work permit with a student visa?

Yes. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the course session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

  1. Can I opt for a different course or academic institution after getting a student visa?

Yes, you can change the course or institution after you receive your Australia student visa for Indian students, but you need to update the Australian government about that. 

Conclusion

Living and studying in Australia is a dream come true for many Indians. By following the guidelines discussed here, you can easily streamline your visa application process and focus on your future career goals.

 


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.

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