Documents for Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)

After receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a registered provider, you’ll need these for your student visa application:

• Valid Passport:
  Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Australia. Include a certified copy of the biodata page.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE):
  Official CoE from a CRICOS-registered provider, stating the course, duration, and start date.
• Proof of Financial Capacity:
  Evidence of sufficient funds to cover:
  • First-year tuition fees (as per CoE).
  • Living expenses: AUD 29,710/year (as of 2025) for a single student.
  • Travel costs (e.g., return airfare).
  • Acceptable documents: bank statements (past 3–6 months), fixed deposits, education loan sanction letters, or scholarship letters.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):
  Mandatory health insurance for the duration of your visa. Purchase from an approved provider (e.g., Medibank, Bupa) before applying. Provide the policy number or proof of purchase.
• English Proficiency (if applicable):
  Not always required for visa but may be requested if not provided for admission. Submit IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or equivalent results if needed.
• Passport-Sized Photos:
  Recent photos meeting Australian visa specifications (35mm x 45mm, plain background).
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement:
  A written statement explaining your intent to study in Australia, ties to your home country, and plans to leave after your visa expires. Include details about your course, career goals, and personal circumstances.
• Health Examination (if applicable):
  Required if prompted by the Department of Home Affairs (e.g., for courses involving healthcare or long stays). Must be done by a panel physician approved by Australia.
• Under 18 Welfare Arrangements (if applicable):
  For students under 18, a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter from the institution or guardian, plus parental consent.
• Translated Documents:
  Any non-English documents must include a certified translation by an accredited translator (e.g., NAATI in Australia).
• Visa Application Form:
  Completed online via the ImmiAccount portal, along with the visa fee (AUD 710 as of 2025, subject to change) and biometrics if required.
• Biometrics (if applicable):
  Fingerprints and photo taken at an Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) or equivalent, if requested.

Additional Documents for Travel and Arrival

These ensure a smooth entry into Australia and help with post-arrival formalities:

• Visa Grant Notice:
  The electronic visa grant letter issued by the Department of Home Affairs. Present this with your CoE and passport upon arrival.
• Accommodation Details:
  Proof of housing (e.g., university residence contract, homestay agreement, or private lease). Arrange temporary accommodation (e.g., hostel) if permanent housing isn’t confirmed.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):
  Confirmation of OSHC policy (e.g., membership card or email). Ensure coverage starts before or upon arrival.
• Health Records:
  Vaccinations, prescriptions (translated into English), and a doctor’s note for medications. Check Australian regulations for restricted drugs via the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
• Photocopies and Digital Copies:
  2–3 copies of key documents (passport, CoE, visa grant notice, etc.) and secure digital versions (e.g., cloud storage). Keep one set in carry-on, one in checked luggage, and one with family.
• Local Currency:
  AUD 100–200 for immediate expenses (e.g., transport, food). Exchange money before departure or at the airport.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE):
  Your official CoE from the institution, useful for immigration checks at the border.
• International Student Identity Card (ISIC):
  Optional but offers discounts on travel, services, and attractions in Australia and globally. Apply before departure or at your destination.

Optional but Useful Documents

• Tax File Number (TFN) Application:
  Required if you plan to work (up to 48 hours/fortnight during term). Apply online via the Australian Taxation Office after arrival; takes ~2 weeks.
• Prepaid Forex Card:
  A prepaid card in AUD (e.g., Travel Money Oz or similar) for tuition, books, and expenses, often with student discounts.
• Scholarship/Loan Documents:
  Award letters or loan agreements for budgeting or immigration queries, if applicable.
• Travel Itinerary:
  Flight details and airport transfer plans (e.g., to university or accommodation).