Australia has one of the best cultures in the world, with its values towards equality and multiculturalism, making it an excellent place for families looking for life opportunities.
The country is ranked as one of the best places to raise a family, along with Norway and Denmark. It also appears on many other quality-of-life and job opportunity lists.
Australian citizens welcome newcomers and appreciate equality between all people, regardless of race or origin.
Australia is a great country that offers the opportunity to live, study and work as a student. This article will explain how you can come with a student visa (subclass 500) as part of your family’s life plan.
This article is aimed at those who not only want to travel alone but also want their loved ones (including their partner and children) to accompany them on this adventure,
What are the rules for bringing the family as an international student?
When applying for a student visa, the main applicant may include their family members (partners and children) in the application. Once the visa is approved, the family can travel together to Australia.
Some families decide that the principal applicant travels first and organizes the basics, for example, finding a place to live, securing a job, selecting schools for the children, etc. The rest of the family can travel later.
What are the requirements for a student visa in Australia?
Passports:
You must ensure that your passport and those of your dependents have at least 6 months of validity.
Enrol in the course: (ELICOS OR CRICOS) recognized by the government of Australia:
You will need to enrol in the course of your choice, which may be English courses, technical training or university degrees.
Acquire medical coverage for international students (OSHC:
Overseas Student Health Cover)
An OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is required to apply for a student visa, which must last for the entire period of your stay. This same insurance must also include your family.
Write the letter of intent (GTE: Genuine Temporary Entrant)
As a fundamental requirement to apply for a study visa, you must write a letter to the Australian immigration department explaining why you want to study in Australia.
Student visa application (Subclass 500)
Once you have enrolled in a suitable course, acquired the (OSHC) and drafted the letter of intent (GTE), you will be able to apply for a student visa at the Australian immigration department, including your partner and children.
To include them, you must prove that your relationship is legitimate, provide proof of marriage or de facto relationship, etc.
Take into account that in some cases, the Australian immigration department and the schools reserve the right to demand the following requirements:
Financial Solvency: Depending on your nationality and the type of course and school/university you are applying for, you may be asked to prove that you have sufficient financial resources to cover course fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies or a maximum of one year.
The level of English: If, in your case, you are going to study a technical training course/higher degree. The school/university may ask you for an aptitude test before accepting your application.
Certificates of Previous Studies: it will also depend on the type you have chosen. The school/university may ask for a certificate of previous studies before accepting your application.
Do I have to enrol my school-age children?
The short answer is Yes. If your children over the age of 5 are travelling with you as dependents on your student visa, you will need to pay fees for them to go to an Australian school (regardless of whether the school is state or private).
School fees vary depending on the age of your children and the state or territory you live in, but fees range from $11,000 to 18,600 Australian dollars per year per child.
Do I have employment rights as an international student?
Most student visa holders can work 40 hours per fortnight for the duration of the course. During holidays, this is extended to full-time work rights for the primary visa holder. The dependent spouse may work part-time.
Only if studying for a Research Master’s or PhD, the main visa holder and the partner have full-time work rights.
What are the costs of a study visa for families in Australia?
Knowing the cost of studying in Australia with a family is an important part of your financial preparation. For your reference, here are some of the costs associated with visas, health insurance and a 6-month English course in Australia.
Please note the costs below are only a rough guide. Contact us to prepare a personalized budget and take advantage of the discounts or promotions we can offer you.
Note: When you apply for a student visa, you will need to pay for comprehensive medical insurance during the validity of your visa. For example, if your visa is valid for six months, you must prepay for six months of health insurance.
*Payment plan: Schools/universities offer payment plans for students who want them. Please note that schools require a minimum payment of 3 months in advance. The rest can then be paid in monthly instalments.
How do I Start the Subclass 500 Student Visa Application Process?
The application process for most Australian visas is online, including student visas. Applicants can create an Immi Account online at the Australian Government website.
Remember that immigration laws in Australia are constantly evolving, and I recommend speaking with a migration agent before starting the visa application process.
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