Briefly on the Australia Student Visa Extention (subclass 500)
Are you an international student pursuing your dreams in Australia? If so, you’re probably aware of the various challenges that come with studying abroad. Facing an entirely new educational system, trying to adapt to a different culture, and making sure your visa status remains in good standing can be quite overwhelming and challenging at the same time. This is to say that Australia student visa extension can be necessary.
An Australian student visa is a temporary visa that allows international students to study in Australia. This visa not only grants you access to high-quality education but also allows you to work part-time while studying and provides opportunities for post-graduation work.
Why extend your Australian student visa (subclass 500)?
There are several reasons why you might need to extend your Australian student visa:
- Completing an Additional Course: If you plan to pursue another course or degree in Australia, you’ll need to extend your visa to cover the extended duration of your studies.
- Research or Thesis Completion: For students involved in research or thesis work, extra time may be required to finish your academic project.
- Unforeseen Contingencies or Delays: Sometimes, unexpected circumstances like illness or personal issues may bring about a change in your study plan, necessitating a visa extension.
If your Australia student visa is set to expire before you can finish your course, it is advised that you submit a new student visa application to the Department of Home Affairs prior to the expiration date of your current visa. This is necessary to ensure that you maintain legal status in Australia while continuing your studies.
Australia Student Visa Extension
A visa cannot be extended in theory! That means that there is such a thing as an “extension of the duration of your current student visa.” Instead, if your Australia student visa is set to expire before you can finish your course, and you want to continue studying in Australia, you must go through the entire student visa application process. To avoid issues of lateness, it is advised that you apply at least 3 to 4 months before your existing visa expires.
If you apply from within Australia, you will be given a Bridging Visa A (BVA). This visa allows you to legally live in Australia while your visa is being processed and will take effect when your existing student visa expires.
But, if you apply from outside Australia, you must wait until your student visa application is through and accepted before returning to Australia.
Breakdown of the Documents Needed for an Australia Student Visa Extension
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Providing Proof of meeting English Language Proficiency Criteria
- Providing Proof of OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the entire visa duration including OSHC Policy Number HAP ID Number
- Undergoing a Medical Examination
- Proof of meeting financial obligations
- Birth Certificate
- Passport identity page (every page includes visa sample and immigration stamp)
- National identification card,
- All pages of the household registration book
- AS CV (approved by the municipal authorities)
- Marriage certificate (for married students)
Based on your passport country and educational institution, these documentation requirements may differ.
It is also important to know that extending a Student Visa shares similarities with the initial application process, but there are some key distinct differences you need to bear in mind.
How Do I Extend My Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
To extend your Australian Student Visa, follow these steps:
- Review Your Visa Conditions
The first and foremost step when considering an Australian Student Visa Extension is to review your visa conditions. These conditions are outlined in your current visa grant notice. Ensure that you are aware of the expiration date of your visa and any other specific requirements related to your visa subclass as outlined by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Apply for a Visa Condition Waiver
In some cases, you may find that certain visa conditions are difficult for you to meet. This could be due to unexpected situations or changes in your circumstances. If you believe you can’t fulfill a specific visa condition, you can apply for a waiver. A waiver essentially requests the Department of Home Affairs to exempt you from complying with that particular condition. However, it’s important to note that not all conditions can be waived, and each case is considered individually. Be prepared to provide a valid and convincing reason for the waiver.
- Extend Your CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment)
As you are aware by now, your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is a very important document that confirms your enrollment in an Australian educational institution. If your program duration exceeds the validity of your current CoE, you’ll need to apply for an extension. This ensures that your CoE remains valid for the entire duration of your extended stay. It is also advised that you maintain an up-to-date and accurate CoE throughout your time in Australia, as it’s a key requirement for your visa application.
- Renew Health Insurance (OSHC)
Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all international students in Australia. Your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) should be valid for the entire duration of your stay. When extending your student visa, make sure your OSHC is also extended to cover the additional period. This is to ensure that you have access to healthcare services while in Australia. You don’t want to be in a situation where you are being denied access to adequate healthcare services when you need them the most.
- Prepare Your Documents
Before applying for a visa extension, gather all the necessary documents. This includes your valid passport, CoE, financial evidence demonstrating your ability to cover living expenses and tuition fees, documents for your character requirements, health insurance documents, GTE, visa application fee receipt, etc.
- Apply Online
To apply for a student visa extension, you’ll need to create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. This online platform allows you to submit your application and track its progress. Fill out the Student Visa Extension Application Form online, providing accurate information and attaching all the required documents. Pay the visa application fee through the ImmiAccount portal and keep the receipt as proof of payment.
Australian Student Visa Extension Fee 2023
If you are a student in Australia, applying for a student visa extension for the first time is going to cost you AUD710.00. Any further extensions after that will cost you A$1410.
*Prices are accurate as of October 2nd, 2023.
Further information is available on the Department of Home Affairs website
FAQ on Australian Student Visa Extension
Q: When should I start the visa extension process?
Ans: It is advised that you start the process well before your current visa expires. At most, four months before your current visa expires is highly recommended. Early preparation ensures there’s enough time to gather the required documents and complete the application.
Q: Can I work while my visa extension is being processed?
Ans: You can continue working under the same conditions as your current visa while your extension application is being processed. However, it is advised that you comply with all visa conditions.
Q: How long does it take to process a student visa extension?
Ans: Ans: Processing times may vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your current visa’s expiration date. You can track the progress of your application through your ImmiAccount.
Q: Can I travel outside Australia while my visa extension is pending?
Ans: As tempting as that it may sound, please don’t travel outside Australia while your visa extension is still pending. It is generally advisable to remain in Australia while your visa extension is being processed. Leaving the country may complicate the process, so if you must travel, first consult with the Department of Home Affairs for specific advice.
Q: What happens if my visa extension application is denied?
Ans: If your application is denied, you may need to leave Australia before your current visa expires. It is advised to directives from the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for your next steps.