Study & Training Visas
Study in Australia — the right visa, the right advice.
The Student visa (subclass 500) allows you to study full-time at a registered Australian educational institution. With significant changes to the Genuine Student (GS) requirement in 2024-2026, and increased financial evidence thresholds, getting expert advice before you apply has never been more important.
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test in 2024. Under the GS requirement, the Department assesses whether you are a genuine student — considering your circumstances in your home country, your potential circumstances in Australia, the value of the course to your future, your immigration history, and any other relevant matters. This is a holistic assessment, and a well-prepared application that addresses all of these factors is essential.
Financial evidence requirements have increased significantly. As of 2026, you must demonstrate access to at least AUD $29,710 for 12 months of living expenses, plus your tuition fees and travel costs. The Department may also consider your financial capacity to support any dependants.
Student visa holders have limited work rights (typically 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks). Breaching work conditions is a common reason for visa cancellation. I advise on visa conditions and compliance to ensure you maintain your visa status throughout your studies.
What I do
- Assess your eligibility for a student visa and advise on the GS requirement
- Prepare a strong application addressing all GS assessment criteria
- Advise on financial evidence requirements and how to demonstrate sufficient funds
- Handle complex cases involving previous refusals, visa breaches, or changes of course
- Appeal student visa refusals at the ART
- Advise on post-study options including the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)