Applying for Australia and New Zealand Student Visas

Australia and New Zealand are two of the most popular destinations for international students because of their world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and a welcoming environment. Both countries boast prestigious universities, stunning landscapes, and vibrant student communities.

If you’re considering studying in either Australia or New Zealand, securing a student visa is a crucial step. In this post, we have provided detailed information that will walk you through the process of applying for student visas in both countries, ensuring you have all the information needed to start your academic journey.

Read Also

• How to Apply for UK Student Visas
• Applying for Canada Student Visas
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Part 1: How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa

Understanding the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at an accredited educational institution in Australia. This visa is flexible and caters to various types of study, including higher education, vocational education, English language courses, and more.

Key Features of the Subclass 500 Visa:

• Work Rights: You are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
• Duration: The visa is typically valid for the duration of your course, with some additional time before and after the course for travel and preparation.

Step 1: Get Accepted into an Australian Educational Institution

Before applying for a student visa, you must secure a place at an Australian educational institution that is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

How to Find a CRICOS-Registered Institution:

• Visit the CRICOS website to search for registered institutions and their courses.

Application Process:

• Undergraduate: Apply through the university’s online portal or via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) for institutions in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
• Postgraduate: Applications are typically made directly to the university.
• Required Documents: Academic transcripts, English language proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Once accepted, the institution will provide you with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is required for your visa application.

Step 2: Understand the Visa Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500), you need to meet several eligibility criteria:

1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): You must have a valid CoE from an Australian institution registered with CRICOS.

2. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: You must demonstrate that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of studying, with the intention to return home after completing your studies.

3. Financial Requirements: You must show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and other costs. As of 2024, the required amount for living expenses is AUD 21,041 per year for students.

4. English Language Proficiency: You need to provide proof of your English language proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, unless you are exempt.

5. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You must obtain OSHC for the duration of your stay in Australia. OSHC is mandatory and provides health insurance to international students.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

For your Australian Student Visa application, you will need the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Australia.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): This document is issued by your educational institution and confirms your admission.
• Proof of Financial Capacity: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or a letter of financial sponsorship.
• English Language Test Results: If applicable, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement: A written statement explaining your intentions to study in Australia and return to your home country afterward.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Certificate: Proof of your health insurance coverage.
• Passport-Style Photographs: Recent photographs meeting the visa photo requirements.
• Health Examination Results: Depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay, you may need to undergo a health examination.

Step 4: Complete the Online Visa Application

You can apply for the Subclass 500 Student Visa online through the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.

How to Apply:

1. Create an ImmiAccount: Go to the ImmiAccount portal to create an account and start your application.
2. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide all necessary information, including your personal details, CoE number, and financial information.
3. Upload Documents: Upload all the required documents in the correct format.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The fee for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) is approximately AUD 650.
5. Submit the Application: After reviewing your application, submit it through the ImmiAccount portal.

Step 5: Attend a Biometrics Appointment (if required)

In some cases, you may be required to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) as part of your visa application. If this is necessary, you will receive a notification after submitting your application.

How to Submit Biometrics:

• Book an Appointment: Follow the instructions in your notification to schedule an appointment at a visa application center.
• Attend the Appointment: Bring your passport, the notification letter, and any other required documents.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing

Visa processing times can vary depending on your country of residence, the time of year, and the complexity of your application. Typically, student visas are processed within 4 to 6 weeks.

Tracking Your Application: You can track the status of your application through your ImmiAccount or by contacting the Department of Home Affairs.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa Decision

Once your visa application has been processed, you will receive a decision. If approved, your visa details will be digitally linked to your passport, and you will be able to travel to Australia.

What to Do If Your Visa Is Refused: If your visa application is refused, the Department of Home Affairs will provide you with reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to request a review of the decision or reapply, addressing the issues identified.

Step 8: Prepare for Your Arrival in Australia

Before traveling to Australia, there are a few key preparations you should make:

Accommodation: Arrange for your accommodation in advance, whether it’s university housing, private rentals, or homestays.

Travel Arrangements: Book your flight to Australia, ensuring you arrive close to the start of your course. Keep all important documents (passport, CoE, proof of OSHC) in your carry-on luggage.

Health Insurance: Ensure your OSHC is valid from the day you arrive in Australia.

Step 9: Arriving in Australia

Upon arrival in Australia, you will go through customs and immigration:

Customs and Border Protection: Present your passport, visa, and CoE to the border officer. They may ask questions about your studies and your stay in Australia.

Settling In: After passing through immigration, head to your accommodation and familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. Complete any university registration processes and attend orientation sessions.

Step 10: Start Your Studies and Maintain Your Visa Status

Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to focus on your studies. To maintain your student visa status, adhere to the following guidelines:

Full-Time Enrollment: You must remain enrolled in your course and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Work While Studying: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and full-time during breaks. However, you must not exceed these limits.

Visa Extensions: If your course lasts longer than your visa’s validity, you may need to apply for a visa extension. Begin the process at least three months before your current visa expires.

Post-Study Work Visa: After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to work in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on your qualifications.

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Part 2: How to Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa

Understanding the New Zealand Student Visa

The New Zealand Student Visa allows international students to study full-time at an accredited institution in New Zealand. Like Australia, New Zealand offers a range of educational opportunities, from universities to vocational training institutes.

Key Features of the New Zealand Student Visa:

• Work Rights: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled holidays.
• Duration: The visa is typically valid for the length of your course, plus some additional time.

Step 1: Get Accepted into a New Zealand Educational Institution

Before applying for a student visa, you must secure an offer of place from a New Zealand educational institution that is registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).

How to Find a Registered Institution:

• Visit the Study in New Zealand website to search for institutions and courses.

Application Process:

• Undergraduate: Apply directly to the institution or through an agent if applicable.
• Postgraduate: Apply directly to the university.
• Required Documents: Academic transcripts, English language proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL), a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Once accepted, the institution will provide you with an offer of place, which is required for your visa application.

Step 2: Understand the Visa Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a New Zealand Student Visa, you need to meet several eligibility criteria:

1. Offer of Place: You must have a valid offer of place from an NZQA-registered institution.

2. Financial Requirements: You must show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel. As of 2024, the minimum amount required for living expenses is NZD 20,000 per year.

3. Health and Character Requirements: You may need to undergo a medical examination and provide a police certificate to prove that you are in good health and of good character.

4. English Language Proficiency: You may need to provide proof of your English language proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

For your New Zealand Student Visa application, you will need the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from New Zealand.
• Offer of Place: A formal offer from a New Zealand educational institution.
• Proof of Financial Capacity: Bank statements, a scholarship letter, or a letter of financial sponsorship.
• English Language Test Results: If applicable, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
• Medical Certificate and Chest X-ray: Depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay, you may need to undergo a medical examination.
• Police Certificate: Required if you are over 17 and intend to stay in New Zealand for more than two years.

Step 4: Complete the Online Visa Application

You can apply for the New Zealand Student Visa online through the Immigration New Zealand website.

How to Apply:

1. Create a RealMe Account: Visit the Immigration New Zealand website to create a RealMe account and start your application.
2. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide all necessary information, including your personal details, offer of place, and financial information.
3. Upload Documents: Upload all the required documents in the correct format.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The fee for a student visa is approximately NZD 330. If you are applying from outside New Zealand, you may also need to pay a service fee to the visa application center.
5. Submit the Application: After reviewing your application, submit it through the RealMe portal.

Step 5: Attend a Biometrics Appointment (if required)

In some cases, you may be required to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) as part of your visa application. If this is necessary, you will receive a notification after submitting your application.

How to Submit Biometrics:

• Book an Appointment: Follow the instructions in your notification to schedule an appointment at a visa application center.
• Attend the Appointment: Bring your passport, the notification letter, and any other required documents.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing

Visa processing times can vary depending on your country of residence and the time of year. Typically, student visas are processed within 4 to 6 weeks.

Tracking Your Application: You can track the status of your application through your RealMe account or by contacting Immigration New Zealand.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa Decision

Once your visa application has been processed, you will receive a decision. If approved, you will receive an eVisa, which is an electronic visa linked to your passport. You can print a copy of your visa to carry with you when you travel.

What to Do If Your Visa Is Refused: If your visa application is refused, Immigration New Zealand will provide you with reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to request a reconsideration or reapply, addressing the issues identified.

Step 8: Prepare for Your Arrival in New Zealand

Before traveling to New Zealand, there are a few key preparations you should make:

Accommodation: Arrange for your accommodation in advance, whether it’s university housing, private rentals, or homestays.

Travel Arrangements: Book your flight to New Zealand, ensuring you arrive close to the start of your course. Keep all important documents (passport, offer of place, proof of financial capacity) in your carry-on luggage.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance for the duration of your stay in New Zealand. Some universities offer their own insurance plans, or you can purchase a policy from a private provider.

Step 9: Arriving in New Zealand

Upon arrival in New Zealand, you will go through customs and immigration:

Customs and Border Protection: Present your passport, visa, and offer of place to the border officer. They may ask questions about your studies and your stay in New Zealand.

Settling In: After passing through immigration, head to your accommodation and familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. Complete any university registration processes and attend orientation sessions.

Step 10: Start Your Studies and Maintain Your Visa Status

Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to focus on your studies. To maintain your student visa status, adhere to the following guidelines:

Full-Time Enrollment: You must remain enrolled in your course and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Work While Studying: You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. However, you must not exceed these limits.

Visa Extensions: If your course lasts longer than your visa’s validity, you may need to apply for a visa extension. Begin the process at least three months before your current visa expires.

Post-Study Work Visa: After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on your qualifications.

Conclusion

Applying for a student visa in Australia or New Zealand can seem daunting, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can successfully navigate the process. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well-prepared to secure your visa and start your academic journey in either country. Remember, each student’s situation is unique, so tailor your application to your circumstances and seek help if needed from your institution’s international office or a qualified immigration advisor.

Both Australia and New Zealand offer incredible opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and personal growth, making the effort well worth it. Good luck with your visa application, and enjoy your studies in Australia or New Zealand!

Helpful Resources and YouTube Videos

• Australia Student Visa Information: Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
• New Zealand Student Visa Information: Immigration New Zealand
• How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa: YouTube Guide
• How to Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa: YouTube Guide
• Tips for a Successful Visa Application: YouTube Tips

Disclaimer

This guide is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa regulations and processes can change, so it’s important to verify all information through official sources, such as the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and Immigration New Zealand. The YouTube videos linked in this post are not created or owned by our website and are provided for additional context and guidance. All credits for the videos go to their respective creators.