Are you planning to extend your course or willing to pursue a new course now? For this, you need to apply for a student visa extension. It is the best way to stay, live, and work in Australia to build your career. Apply for a student visa extension before your previous visa expires.
Australia is one of the most preferred destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, vibrant culture, and excellent career opportunities. However, many students find themselves needing to extend their student visas to complete their studies or pursue further education. At Stepping Stones Career Solutions, we provide comprehensive assistance to students seeking a Student Visa Extension Australia, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
There are several reasons why international students in Australia may need to apply for a student visa extension:
To apply for a student visa extension, you need to fulfill some requirements:-
Student visa extension Australia processing time may range from 2 to 12 weeks.
Note that this is just an estimate based on the number of visas previously approved by the Department of Home Affairs. While there is no fixed duration, make sure you complete your application thoroughly and accurately to minimize potential delays.
To apply for an extension of student visa subclass 500, you need to gather essential documents, including:
The standard application fee is AUD 1600.00. Please note that this fee does not cover the expenses for family members applying alongside you or the costs associated with health and character checks.
Important: If you had a student visa on or after February 1, 2020, and were unable to complete your course on time due to COVID-19 disruptions, you might qualify for a fee waiver. This waiver applies in cases such as:
To apply, submit a completed Form 1545 COVID-19 Impacted Student provided by your education institution.
If your student visa extension is refused, you will be notified with a reason for the refusal. You have options such as:
If your student visa is about to expire but you need more time to complete your studies, you’ll need to apply for a student visa extension. Keep in mind, that you’re not actually extending your current visa—you’re applying for a new one. Here’s how you can do it:
Don’t wait until the last minute! Check your Visa Grant Notice or VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) to see when your visa expires. It’s best to start the process at least 3-4 months in advance.
If you need extra time to complete your course, your university or institution must issue a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Without this, you won’t be able to apply for a new student visa.
Your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) must be valid for the entire duration of your new visa. Contact your insurance provider and extend your policy if necessary.
Prepare the following documents before you apply:
✔ New CoE
✔ OSHC confirmation
✔ Passport (valid for the entire visa period)
✔ GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement (explaining why you need to stay longer)
✔ Financial documents (proof that you can support yourself)
✔ Academic transcripts (if required)
Go to the Department of Home Affairs website, log in to your ImmiAccount, and lodge a new Student (Subclass 500) visa application. Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly.
The student visa application fee in 2024 is around AUD 710. Check the latest fees on the Home Affairs website, as they can change.
Depending on your nationality, you might be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo). You may also need a medical check-up, especially if you’ve been in Australia for a long time.
Processing times vary but typically range from 4 to 6 weeks. You’ll get a Bridging Visa A (BVA) automatically, allowing you to stay in Australia while waiting for a decision.
Once approved, you’ll get a Visa Grant Notification via email. Check the details carefully, including the expiry date and any conditions.
Applying for a Student Visa Extension can be a complex and time-consuming process. Our team at Stepping Stones Career Solutions offers expert guidance and support to ensure a seamless experience. Our services include:
Extending your student visa in Australia is crucial if you need more time to complete your studies. By following the correct procedure and seeking professional assistance, you can ensure a smooth transition without legal complications. At Stepping Stones Career Solutions, we are committed to helping students navigate the visa extension process efficiently. Contact us today to get expert guidance and secure your future in Australia!
For further assistance, reach out to Stepping Stones Career Solutions and let us help you with your Student Visa Extension in Australia!
We are your trusted partner in migration and visa consultation. With years of experience, we guide overseas students and professionals through course selection, applications, and visa processes, ensuring expert support every step of the way.
