The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs has officially confirmed that foreign nationals holding a Subclass 500 student visa can remain in Australia for up to six years, with the permitted stay directly tied to the duration of their enrolled course. This announcement, published by the department, clarifies the visa's conditions, including travel rights and work allowances, positioning it as one of the more flexible student visa options for international applicants worldwide.
How Long Can You Stay on a Subclass 500 Visa?
The Subclass 500 student visa does not have a fixed expiry date for all holders. Instead, the length of stay is determined by the applicant's course enrolment, with a maximum ceiling of six years. This means students enrolled in longer programmes, such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees combined with preparatory courses, may qualify for the full six-year period.
The visa is designed to cover participation in any eligible course of study in Australia. While the visa remains valid, holders are also permitted to travel freely in and out of the country, making it a flexible option for international students.
Work Rights and Visa Costs
Beyond study and travel, the Subclass 500 visa allows holders to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during periods when their course or training is in session. This provision gives international students a legal path to earn income while studying, which is particularly relevant for Nigerian applicants managing living costs abroad.
The visa costs from AUD 2,500 (roughly ₦2.5 million), though the Department of Home Affairs noted that concessions apply in limited circumstances. Applicants are advised to check eligibility for any fee reductions before submitting their application.
Related Visa Updates: Graduate and Family Provisions
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that Australia had introduced a special visa allowing graduates to bring their family members to the country. This visa targets temporary graduates who already hold a Post-Higher Education Work, Post-Study Work, or Replacement visa and who obtained their degree from an Australian institution located in a regional area. Successful applicants can live, work, and study in Australia for between one and two years, with the exact duration tied to the regional location of the institution where they studied and the regional area where they currently reside.
Additionally, Legit.ng had earlier reported that Australia had named one country whose citizens can work without applying for a visa before arrival. These updates highlight Australia's evolving visa policies, which continue to offer various pathways for international students and graduates.
