Australia Student Visa: Work Hours, Fees, and Rules You Need to Know (Subclass 500)

Student Visa Australia 2025 Work Hour Limits and Fee Hike Explained

Australia continues to be a top choice for international students, offering high-quality education and a vibrant student lifestyle. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, nine of the world’s top 100 universities are located in Australia, and 95% of its universities are globally ranked. If you're planning to study in Australia, understanding the conditions of the Subclass 500 student visa is essential.

What Is the Subclass 500 Student Visa?
The Subclass 500 student visa allows international students to study full-time in an approved course at an Australian university, college, or institution. This visa is valid for the duration of your course (up to a maximum of five years) and permits multiple entries in and out of Australia during that time.

You’ll need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian education provider before applying for the visa. This applies to students enrolling in:

• Higher education courses
• Vocational Education and Training (VET)
• Pathway or foundation courses
• English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)

Visa Fee and Costs (Effective July 1, 2025)
From 1 July 2025, the application fee for the Subclass 500 student visa has increased to AUD $2,000, up from the previous AUD $1,600. Here’s a breakdown of other possible fees:

• Additional applicant over 18: AUD $1,225
• Additional applicant under 18: AUD $400
• Subsequent Temporary Application Charge (STAC): AUD $700 (if applying within Australia)

Though the latest increase is only 25%, it follows a much larger fee hike in 2024 when the visa cost jumped from AUD $710 to AUD $1,600—a 125% rise.

Can International Students Work on a Subclass 500 Visa?
Yes, students on a Subclass 500 student visa are allowed to work while studying in Australia. The work hour conditions are as follows:

• Up to 48 hours per fortnight during the study period
• Unlimited work hours during scheduled course breaks
• No work hour limit for students enrolled in a Master’s by Research or Doctoral degree, once the course has started

It’s important to note that the 48-hour limit applies during study terms, including exam weeks and before the official course start date. Students should ensure they comply with these rules to avoid visa breaches.

Bringing Family Members on a Student Visa
The Subclass 500 visa also allows international students to bring eligible family members, such as a spouse or dependent children, to Australia. Family members can also work in some cases, depending on the main visa holder’s course type and level.

Why Visa Compliance Is Important
Complying with all visa conditions is critical. If you fail to meet any visa requirements—whether related to course attendance, work hours, or health insurance—you risk having your visa cancelled. Always stay updated with the latest rules and communicate with your education provider or immigration advisor if you're unsure.

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