Over the past few decades, there has been an increasing trend of going abroad for education. Many students seek better educational opportunities and a higher quality of life. If you have a family and plan to study in Australia, you may need to apply for a Student Visa Subsequent Entrant, which allows dependent family members to accompany the student visa holder.
What is the Student Visa Subsequent Entrant?
A Student Visa Subsequent Entrant allows family members of a student visa holder to travel to Australia. Eligible dependents include spouses, de facto partners, and dependent children. This visa ensures that students studying in Australia can have their family’s support during their education.
Key Features of This Visa:
- Allows dependents to join the student visa holder in Australia.
- Eligible dependents may work under specific conditions.
- Ensures financial and emotional support for students during their studies.
Eligibility Criteria for Student Visa Subsequent Entrant
To qualify for a Student Visa Subsequent Entrant, you must meet the following key eligibility criteria:
- Provide proof of relationship with the primary student visa holder.
- Show that your visit is for supporting the student and you intend to return home after the visa expires.
- Meet the health and character requirements.
- Have valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay.
- Show sufficient financial capacity to cover living expenses, tuition, and travel costs.
- Submit Form 157A (Student Visa Application) and Form 919 (Nomination by the primary visa holder).
- Provide a letter from the educational institution confirming the primary visa holder’s enrollment.
- Ensure any dependent children are under 18 years of age.
- Pass the required medical examination within 12 months of applying.
- Comply with work limitations and stay within the approved visa period.
Required Documents for Student Visa Subsequent Entrant
To apply for a Subsequent Entrant Visa, you need the following documents:
- Passport copy of the dependent family member.
- Completed Form 157A and Form 919.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
- Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- A letter from the primary student’s educational institution.
- Financial proof (bank statements, income proof, financial guarantee letter).
- English language proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
- Medical examination results and police clearance.
- Copy of visa grant notice of the primary visa holder.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
Application Process for Student Visa Subsequent Entrant
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you satisfy all conditions, including health, character, and financial proof.
- Submit Application Online: Apply through the ImmiAccount portal on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Complete Medical and Police Checks: Undergo necessary medical examinations and submit police clearance certificates.
- Monitor Application Status: Stay updated and respond to any additional document requests.
- Visa Approval and Travel to Australia: Once approved, you can travel to Australia and support the student visa holder.
Conditions for Student Visa Subsequent Entrant
Key Visa Conditions:
1. Condition 8201 – Maximum Three Months of Study
You can only engage in study or training for up to three months while on this visa.
2. Condition 8104 – Work Limitation
Dependents can work only after the primary visa holder has started their course. The maximum work limit is 40 hours per fortnight.
3. Condition 8501 – Maintain Health Insurance
Visa holders must maintain valid health insurance throughout their stay.
4. Condition 8516 – Maintain Eligibility
You must continue to meet visa eligibility requirements throughout your stay.
Processing Time for Subclass 500 Subsequent Entrant
The estimated processing time for the Student Visa Subsequent Entrant (Subclass 500) ranges from 27 to 58 days. However, factors such as the complexity of your case and application completeness may affect this timeline.
FAQs on Student Visa Subsequent Entrant
1. How much is the Subsequent Entrant fee for a Student Visa?
The application fee is approximately AUD 700 per applicant. Additional costs may include medical exams and police clearance fees.
2. Can I work on a Student Visa Subsequent Entrant?
Yes, but only after the primary visa holder begins their course. The work limit is 40 hours per fortnight, except for dependents of master’s or doctoral students, who may work unlimited hours.
3. How long does it take to process a Student Visa Subsequent Entrant?
Processing times typically range from 27 to 58 days, depending on application completeness and additional verification needs.
4. What’s the difference between a Student Visa 500 and a Subsequent Entrant Visa?
The Student Visa 500 is for students studying in Australia, while the Subsequent Entrant Visa allows dependents to join them.
5. What is the success rate for the Australian Visa Subclass 500?
Success depends on meeting all eligibility requirements, providing complete documentation, and satisfying financial, health, and character conditions.