The student visa under the Australian Schools Sector (Subclass 571) enables international students to enter Australia for primary or secondary school studies, including participation in secondary school exchange programs.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for this student visa, applicants must:

1. Present evidence of acceptance from an Australian primary or secondary school, such as an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment code, Confirmation of Enrolment letter, or Letter of Offer.

2. Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel, tuition, and living expenses for themselves and any family members included in the application.

3. Meet the English language proficiency requirements specified by the school.

4. Fulfill various health prerequisites, including obtaining health insurance.

5. Satisfy character requirements, typically involving a criminal record check.

6. Convince Australian authorities of their commitment to a genuine temporary stay, known as the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement.

Requirements for Students Under 18:

Applicants below 18 years old must adhere to specific conditions:

1. Have a parent or guardian sign their visa application. If this is not possible, alternative options include a statutory declaration letter granting permission for travel or a copy of Australian form 1229.

2. Reside with a parent, guardian, or another relative over 21 (nominated by a parent or guardian) while in Australia. If this is not feasible, alternative arrangements must be approved by the student’s education provider in Australia.

Duration of Stay:

The Subclass 571 student visa permits students to stay in Australia for the duration of their studies, plus an additional period determined by the course length and its conclusion time:

1. Courses lasting less than 10 months: Visa valid for the entire course duration plus one month.

2. Courses lasting 10 months or more, concluding between January and October: Visa valid for the entire course duration plus 2 months.

3. Courses lasting 10 months or more, concluding in November or December: Visa valid until March 15th of the following year.

Family Inclusion:

Applicants can include the following family members on their visa application:

1. Partners

2. Dependent children (including partners’ dependent children)

3. Dependent relatives (including partners’ dependent relatives)

Work Opportunities:

This visa permits students to work up to 20 hours per week during study/term time and full-time during holidays without requiring separate work authorization. However, students below the school leaving age (typically 15 for most Australian states) cannot work during study/term time. Family members included in the student’s visa can also work up to 20 hours per week year-round.