For international students in Australia, a student visa (Subclass 500) allows them to live, study, and work in the country while enrolled in an approved educational program. However, if the visa is expiring before course completion or a student wishes to continue further studies, extending the student visa is necessary.
The process of extending a student visa in Australia requires proper planning, timely application submission, and meeting all requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. This guide explains the step-by-step process, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and common mistakes to avoid when applying for a student visa extension.
Reasons for Extending a Student Visa
A student may need to extend their visa due to:
✔ Course duration longer than expected – If a student fails a subject, takes a leave of absence, or their program is extended.
✔ Transitioning to a new course – Moving from undergraduate to postgraduate studies.
✔ Additional study requirements – For example, needing more time for research projects, internships, or thesis completion.
✔ Visa expiration before course completion – Some student visas expire before the final academic period ends.
Eligibility Criteria for Student Visa Extension
Before applying for an extension, students must ensure they meet these requirements:
✔ Must still be enrolled in a CRICOS-approved course (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
✔ Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements – Must prove that they intend to study in Australia temporarily.
✔ Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
✔ Have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living costs, and healthcare expenses.
✔ Hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
✔ Meet health and character requirements as per Australian immigration laws.
When to Apply for a Student Visa Extension
✔ It is recommended to apply for a visa extension at least 3–4 months before the current visa expires.
✔ If a visa expires before applying, the student will be considered an unlawful resident, which may lead to visa refusal or deportation.
✔ Students should apply after receiving a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from their institution.
Step-by-Step Process to Extend a Student Visa in Australia
Step 1: Get a New Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
✔ The CoE is a mandatory document required for the visa extension application.
✔ If continuing in the same course, contact the university to get an updated CoE.
✔ If changing courses, enroll in a new program before applying for a new visa.
Step 2: Renew Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
✔ Australian law requires international students to hold OSHC for the entire duration of their stay.
✔ If the current OSHC expires before the extended visa period, renew the policy before applying.
✔ OSHC providers include Bupa, Medibank, Allianz Care, nib, and AHM.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
The following documents are needed for a student visa extension application:
✔ Valid Passport – Ensure it is valid for the entire duration of the extended visa.
✔ New Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) – Provided by the university or college.
✔ OSHC Health Insurance Certificate – Proof of coverage for the new visa period.
✔ Academic transcripts – To show satisfactory academic progress.
✔ Statement of Purpose (SOP) – A letter explaining why the visa needs to be extended.
✔ Proof of Financial Capacity – Bank statements, sponsorship letters, or financial guarantees proving the student can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses (minimum AUD 24,505 per year as per 2024 regulations)
- Travel costs
✔ Health Check-up & Medical Examination – Some students may need to undergo medical tests as part of the application.
✔ Character Certificate (Police Clearance) – If requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 4: Submit Online Visa Application via ImmiAccount
✔ Go to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
✔ Log in or create an ImmiAccount.
✔ Complete Form 157A – Student Visa Application Form.
✔ Upload all supporting documents.
✔ Pay the student visa application fee.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee
✔ The cost of a student visa extension in 2024 is AUD 710 for the primary applicant.
✔ Additional charges apply for dependents (spouse/children).
✔ Payment methods include credit/debit card, PayPal, BPAY, or bank transfer.
Step 6: Attend Biometrics and Health Examination (If Required)
✔ Some students may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos).
✔ If requested, book a health examination through Bupa Medical Visa Services.
Step 7: Await Visa Decision
✔ Visa processing times range from 4–12 weeks depending on the complexity of the application.
✔ During this period, students can stay in Australia on a Bridging Visa A (BVA), allowing them to continue studying legally.
✔ If additional documents are required, the Department of Home Affairs will send a Request for Further Information (RFI).
What Happens After a Visa Extension Application?
✔ If the visa is approved, a new visa grant notice is issued via email.
✔ If the visa is refused, students can:
- Lodge an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
- Leave Australia before their current visa expires.
✔ Students cannot extend their visa multiple times unless they continue enrolling in new academic programs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Extending a Student Visa
1. Applying Too Late
✔ Always apply 3–4 months before the current visa expires to avoid complications.
2. Submitting Incomplete Documents
✔ Ensure that all mandatory documents (CoE, OSHC, financial proof) are provided.
3. Not Meeting Financial Requirements
✔ The Australian government strictly enforces financial proof to ensure students can support themselves.
4. Poor Academic Performance
✔ Unsatisfactory grades or multiple course failures can lead to visa rejection.
5. Switching to a Non-Eligible Course
✔ Students must stay enrolled in CRICOS-registered courses to maintain visa status.
What to Do If Your Student Visa Extension Is Denied?
If a visa extension application is refused, students can:
✔ Apply for a Review (Appeal Process) – If the visa was denied due to missing documents, an appeal can be lodged with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
✔ Reapply with Correct Documents – Fix any errors in the previous application and submit a new visa request.
✔ Leave Australia Before the Expiry Date – To avoid being classified as an unlawful resident.
Alternative Visa Options for Students in Australia
✔ Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Allows students to work in Australia after completing their studies.
✔ Skilled Work Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491) – For graduates who qualify for permanent residency pathways.
✔ Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) – If the student is in a relationship with an Australian citizen.
Conclusion
Extending a student visa in Australia requires proper planning, timely submission, and ensuring all eligibility requirements are met. By following the correct procedures, gathering necessary documents, and applying before the visa expires, students can successfully continue their studies without legal issues.
With the right approach, international students can maximize their educational opportunities in Australia while complying with immigration regulations.
Zara Adeyemi