What Are The Working Rules For Student Visa 500 Australia?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is a popular choice for international students looking to pursue full-time education in Australia. This visa allows students to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of their course, typically up to five years, depending on the program. One of the most attractive aspects of this visa is the ability to work part-time while studying, which helps students gain practical experience, support their living expenses, and immerse themselves in Australian culture. 

However, the working rules for the Student Visa Subclass 500 are specific and must be strictly followed to maintain visa compliance. This comprehensive guide explores the working rules, recent updates, exceptions, and practical tips for balancing work and study in Australia.

Overview of the Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Subclass 500 visa is designed for international students enrolled in a full-time course registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). It allows students to stay in Australia for the duration of their course, travel in and out of the country, and work part-time under specific conditions. 

The visa also permits including family members (spouse or dependent children) in the application, who may also have work rights under certain conditions. However, the working rules are a critical aspect that students must understand to avoid visa violations, which could lead to cancellation.

Working Rules for Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Australian government has established clear guidelines to ensure that international students prioritize their studies while allowing them to work to support themselves. Below are the key working rules for the Subclass 500 visa:

1. Work Hour Limits During Study Periods

• Maximum Work Hours: As of July 1, 2023, Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. A fortnight refers to a two-week period, typically starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday of the following week. This translates to approximately 24 hours per week on average. 
• Start of Work: Students can only begin working once their course has officially started, not when the visa is granted. This ensures that students settle into their academic commitments before taking on employment. 
• Definition of “In Session”: A course is considered “in session” during regular academic terms or semesters, including periods when assessments or exams are scheduled. If a student is required to attend classes, submit assignments, or sit for exams, the 48-hour fortnightly limit applies.

2. Unlimited Work Hours During Course Breaks

• During scheduled course breaks, such as semester holidays or summer vacations, students can work unlimited hours. This flexibility allows students to take on full-time work during periods when they are not required to attend classes or meet academic obligations. 
• Important Note: The course break must be an officially scheduled break as per the academic calendar of the educational institution. Students should confirm with their institution to ensure they are complying with visa conditions.

3. Exceptions for Specific Courses

• Master’s by Research and Doctoral Students: Students enrolled in a Master’s degree by research or a Doctoral degree (PhD) have no work hour restrictions, even during the academic session. This exception recognizes the flexible nature of research-based programs, which may not follow a traditional class schedule. 
• Work Integrated Learning (WIL): If work is a mandatory component of the course (e.g., internships, clinical placements, or work placements required for course completion), these hours do not count toward the 48-hour fortnightly limit. This allows students to fulfill course requirements without worrying about breaching visa conditions.

4. Work Rights for Family Members

• Family members (spouse or dependent children) included in the visa application as dependents may also have work rights. Typically, they are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the student’s course session, with unlimited hours during course breaks. 
• For students pursuing a Master’s by research or Doctoral degree, their dependents may also work unlimited hours throughout the year, aligning with the primary visa holder’s work rights.

5. Compliance with Visa Conditions

• Condition 8105: This visa condition explicitly states that students cannot work more than 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session (except for Master’s by research or Doctoral students). Breaching this condition can lead to visa cancellation. 
• Monitoring Work Hours: Students are responsible for tracking their work hours to ensure compliance. Employers in Australia are also aware of these restrictions and may require proof of visa conditions. 
• Reporting Changes: Students must notify their education provider and the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in their circumstances, such as changes in address or employment, to maintain visa compliance.

Recent Updates to Working Rules (2024–2025)

The Australian government periodically reviews and updates visa policies to balance the needs of international students and the local workforce. Here are some notable updates as of 2025:

• Increased Work Hour Cap: Effective July 1, 2023, the work hour limit was increased from 40 hours per fortnight to 48 hours per fortnight for most students. This change was introduced to address workforce shortages in Australia and allow students to earn more to support their studies in a strong job market. 
• Temporary Flexibility During COVID-19: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian government temporarily relaxed work restrictions, allowing students to work more hours in critical sectors like healthcare and agriculture. While these relaxations have largely ended, students should check with a migration agent for any temporary provisions in specific industries. 
• Stricter Compliance Monitoring: The government has increased scrutiny of visa compliance, including work hour limits, to ensure students prioritize their studies. Educational institutions and employers may report non-compliance, so students must adhere to the rules.

Practical Tips for Balancing Work and Study

Balancing part-time work with full-time study can be challenging. Here are some practical tips to help Subclass 500 visa holders manage their time and stay compliant:

1. Plan Your Schedule: Use a calendar or app to track your work hours and ensure you stay within the 48-hour fortnightly limit during study periods. Tools like Google Calendar or time-tracking apps can help you stay organized. 
2. Prioritize Studies: The primary purpose of the Subclass 500 visa is to study, so ensure that work does not interfere with your attendance, course progression, or academic performance. Visa condition 8202 requires students to maintain satisfactory attendance and course progress. 
3. Explore On-Campus Opportunities: Many universities and institutions offer on-campus jobs, such as library assistants or student ambassadors, which are often flexible and designed to accommodate student schedules. 
4. Understand Your Industry: Certain industries, such as hospitality, retail, or tutoring, are popular among international students due to their flexible hours. Research job opportunities that align with your skills and course schedule. 
5. Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about visa conditions or need help navigating work restrictions, consult a registered migration agent or your institution’s international student support office. They can provide guidance on compliance and any recent policy changes. 
6. Know Your Rights: International students are protected by Australia’s workplace laws, including minimum wage and safe working conditions. Familiarize yourself with your rights by visiting the Fair Work Ombudsman website or the Study Australia Working in Australia page.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to adhere to the working rules can have serious consequences, including:

• Visa Cancellation: Breaching the 48-hour fortnightly work limit or other visa conditions (e.g., unsatisfactory course progress) may lead to visa cancellation. This could result in immigration detention or removal from Australia. 
• Impact on Future Visa Applications: Non-compliance can affect future visa applications, including pathways to permanent residency, as it may raise concerns about your character or adherence to Australian immigration laws. 
• Financial Penalties: Employers who knowingly allow students to work beyond their visa limits may also face penalties, which could impact your employment relationship.

To avoid these issues, always verify your visa conditions using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system provided by the Department of Home Affairs.

Benefits of Working on a Subclass 500 Visa

Working part-time while studying in Australia offers several advantages:

• Financial Support: Earning income helps cover living expenses, such as rent, food, and transportation, reducing financial stress. 
• Practical Experience: Part-time work in your field of study or related industries can enhance your resume and provide valuable skills for future career opportunities. 
• Cultural Integration: Working allows you to engage with Australian culture, improve your English language skills, and build networks with locals and other international students. 
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Gaining work experience during your studies can strengthen your eligibility for post-study work visas, such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which may lead to permanent residency pathways like the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or State-Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).

How to Apply for a Subclass 500 Visa

To ensure you can take advantage of the work rights under the Subclass 500 visa, you must first secure the visa. Here’s a brief overview of the application process:

1. Enroll in a CRICOS-Registered Course: Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) or Letter of Offer from an Australian institution. 
2. Gather Documents: Provide proof of financial capacity (at least AUD $29,710 for living expenses, plus course fees and travel costs), English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). 
3. Submit Application: Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount at least 6–12 weeks before your course starts. The application fee is AUD $1,600 (as of 2025). 
4. Meet Health and Character Requirements: Complete medical exams and provide police clearance certificates if required. 
5. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): Submit a statement proving your intention to return home after your studies, though this does not preclude applying for other visas later.

For a smooth application process, consider consulting a registered migration agent in Australia or your institution’s international student office.

Conclusion

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers international students a fantastic opportunity to study and work in Australia, providing both academic and professional growth. By understanding and adhering to the working rules—such as the 48-hour fortnightly limit during study periods, unlimited hours during breaks, and exceptions for research students—you can make the most of your time in Australia without risking your visa status. Always stay informed about policy changes, track your work hours, and prioritize your studies to ensure compliance and a rewarding experience.

For the latest updates on visa conditions, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. With proper planning and adherence to the rules, you can balance work and study while enjoying Australia’s world-class education and vibrant culture.