Student Visa Extension Australia: Steps & Updates 2025

If your student visa for Australia is about to expire and you need additional time to complete your studies or begin a new course, extending your visa is an important step.

The student visa process for extension in Australia is not simple. Before applying for it, you must adhere to several regulations. Sometimes your visa isn't even eligible for an extension.

For a 485 visa Australia extension, you must meet specific eligibility conditions, such as completing the course requirements, keeping a high academic standing, and having enough money to support yourself while in Australia.

Here's a full guide to help you get through the procedure with ease to study in Australia further. Let's begin by discussing whether you can extend your student visa and how to do so. 

A Student Visa Extension in Australia refers to applying for a new Subclass 500 Student Visa when your current student visa is about to expire, but you need more time to complete your studies. There is no official "extension"; instead, you must submit a new visa application to continue staying in Australia legally.

When Do You Need to Extend your student visa in Australia?

• Your course duration has been extended.
• You have enrolled in a new course.
• You need extra time to complete research or coursework.
• Your visa is expiring before you finish your studies.

So, for all the above reasons - you can apply for a student visa extension in Australia. 

It is suggested that you start the student visa process for the extension to study in Australia at least 3 to 6 months before it expires. This provides you plenty of time to acquire the relevant paperwork, resolve any concerns, and minimize extra stress.

Step-by-Step Guide for 485 Visa Australia Extension

Step 1: Contact the Australian Immigration Agency and check your eligibility.

To apply for an Australia student extension visa, you must first determine your eligibility.

• Valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Request a fresh CoE from your education institution.
• Financial Requirements for Student Visa Extension: As of May 10, 2024, you must have at least AUD 29,710 to meet living expenditures.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Make sure you have valid health insurance for the length of your prolonged stay.

Complete the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which shows your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for education.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents.

Documents required for student visa for Australia extension are as follows: 

• Having a valid passport
• Your CoE from an Australian university, unless you're awaiting the marking of a post-graduate thesis, in which case you'll want a letter from your university.
• Proof of financial ability to support oneself during your stay.
• Evidence for OSHC
• Provide academic transcripts and confirmation of successful completion of courses. 
• A certified copy of your birth certificate, a copy of each page with an Australian immigration stamp, a national ID card, a marriage certificate (if applicable), a migration agent form 956 (if required), and parental authorization if under 18 years old.
• Personal statement. This should explain why you're continuing your studies, your situation at home, your situation in Australia, and why the course is crucial for your future.

Step 3: Apply online with ImmiAccount.

The Department of Home Affairs administers student visa extensions online through ImmiAccount. We'll help you:

• Complete the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application form.
• Upload all of the documents required for student visa extension.
• Pay the cost of a student visa extension in Australia, which varies based on your situation.

The Home Office will send you a letter of acknowledgment, as well as your Bridging Visa. Check your email frequently for correspondence from the Home Affairs office, and react to any inquiries swiftly to guarantee a speedy turnaround time.

Applicants may be required to provide biometric information immediately after applying. You will be able to view this request in your ImmiAccount and get a letter. You will have 14 days to submit biometrics, so act as soon as you receive the letter and instructions. Biometrics does not apply to onshore students.

Step 4: Attend a medical examination (if necessary).

A medical examination could be required as part of the application procedure. This will be assessed based on your circumstances, including your home country and the duration of your visit.

Once the case officer is designated for your visa application, he or she may contact you for more information or decide on the application without informing you.

Step 5: Hold a valid visa.

If you filed for this visa while in Australia, you will be given a Bridging Visa A (BVA). The BVA permits you to stay in Australia while your visa is being processed, and it begins when your existing visa expires. Please do not travel on your BVA because the visa is canceled upon departure, and you will lose the right to return. 

It is also vital to remember that you do not cancel your present visa. If you do this, you will:

• Be staying in Australia illegally.
• Not qualified for a bridging visa. 

Step 6: Apply before your trip.

Make that your current visa is still valid and allows you to travel. If you depart Australia, your Bridging visa A will be canceled automatically. However, if you have a BVA and compelling reasons to travel, a Bridging visa B (BVB) allows you to return to Australia while your application is processed.

Step 7: Application Outcome

The case officer assigned to your visa application may get in touch with you for additional information or decide to proceed with the application without contacting you. If the visa is granted, you must notify your Australian school provider and make arrangements for your continued accommodation in Australia. Just make sure to allow plenty of time to apply and present all of the required papers.

What is the Cost of a student visa extension in Australia? 

As of July 1, 2024, the Cost of a student visa extension in Australia

(Subclass 500) is AUD 1,600. Additional expenses may include fees for adding family members, biometric data collection, health examinations, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) renewal, and obtaining police clearance certificates, if applicable. 

It's important to note that visa fees and associated costs are subject to change. For the most current information, consult the Department of Home Affairs Visa Pricing Table or seek advice from a registered migration agency. 

To Wrap Up! 

Extending your 485 visa to Australia extension is a crucial step if you need more time to complete your studies or transition to a new course. 

By following the proper steps—ensuring you meet eligibility criteria, gathering the documents required for student visa extension, and submitting your application on time—you can avoid unnecessary stress and legal complications. Also, staying informed about the latest student visa extension in Australian rules and processing times is essential to ensure a smooth transition.

If you're unsure about the student visa process or need expert guidance, you can connect with the best migration agents for student visa extensions. 

And, if you are looking for one - Visafast Migration Consultancy is here to help. As a trusted migration agent in Adelaide, we specialize in student visa extensions and various other visa services. Our team understands the complexities of visa applications and will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.

To know more about us and how we can better help you - book a free consultation today. 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) 

Can I legally stay in Australia after my student visa expires?

No, staying in Australia without a valid visa is unlawful. You must apply for a new visa before your current student visa expires or make arrangements to leave the country to avoid legal consequences.

How long does it take to process a 485 student visa extension in Australia? 

The Student visa extension Australia processing time varies depending on your circumstances and the Department of Home Affairs' workload. On average, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months. It’s best to apply well in advance to prevent any visa gaps.

Can I switch to another type of visa after my student visa expires?

Yes, you may be eligible to apply for a different visa, such as a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), a Visitor Visa, or a Skilled Work Visa. However, you must apply before your student visa expires to maintain legal status in Australia.