🎓 Study ImmigrationActive🇦🇺 Australia
Student Visa
Australia’s student route with relatively high 2026 fees and the Genuine Student requirement applying to recent lodgements.
Processing time
2-4 months
Approximate cost
$1,900
Snapshot
Apr 10, 2026
Last verified
Apr 10, 2026
Eligibility
- Have qualifying study admission.
- Meet the Genuine Student requirement where applicable.
- File a clear and complete application well ahead of studies.
Applications lodged on or after March 23, 2024 are assessed under the Genuine Student requirement rather than GTE.
Application Steps
1
Apply from abroad
File the long-stay visa or initial residence request before travelling to Australia.
Estimated duration: 2 weeks
2
Enter on the correct status
Enter using the visa or approval that matches the intended purpose of stay.
Estimated duration: 1 weeks
3
Convert to residence status
Complete residence-permit or registration steps after arrival where the system requires it.
Estimated duration: 4 weeks
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Official application form
- Photos or biometrics as required
- Identity and civil status documents
- Admission evidence
- Funding proof where applicable
- Evidence supporting Genuine Student
Application Channels
Department of Home Affairs
Australian Department of Home Affairs
Government Fees
Student visa fee
2,000 AUD
Per application
Jul 1, 2025
Timing Notes
The official page shows a median processing time of 33 days for students in the February 2026 snapshot.
Relevant effective date: Jul 1, 2025
Risk Controls
- Use official portals only and avoid paying unverified intermediaries.
- Separate fixed government fees from proof-of-funds or income requirements.
- Prepare civil and police documents with translation and legalisation where needed before filing.