Ed Guru / About Australia
Student VISA Information

Australian Student Visa Info

Who requires a student visa?

Students taking courses of study for not longer than 12 weeks, and between 15-25 hours a day may only require a tourist visa (or ETA).

The ETA has replaced tourist visas, for citizens of the following countries, for stays of up to 90 days: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Rep of Ireland, Italy, Japan, Rep of Korea, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, The Vatican, United States, United Kingdom.

If you are planning a course of study for a longer duration than that listed above, or if you are a citizen of a country not listed above, you should contact the nearest Consulate as early as possible for further information on entering Australia.

What documents will be required?

Entry to Australia always requires

a valid passport

For visa applications, the following may also be required:

Proper medical clearance

Proof of acceptance from the Australian institute

Medical exam documentation

Contact the nearest Australian Embassy for additional documents which may be required.

Time required to issue visa:

ETA's -

Immediately, if applied for in person or by phone.

Mail applications may take 3 weeks or longer.

Non-ETA Tourist visas -

Aprox. 3-4 weeks (Allow more during peak periods)

What is the cost of a visa?

ETAs - No government charge

Non-ETA Tourist visa - Varies

How long is the visa valid for?

Tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days

(See top for ETA validity)

Other information:

Students wishing to study for a period of over 12 weeks must enter Australia on a Student Visa, and must study for a minimum of 25 hours per week.

No tourist visas, or initial student visas, whether granted overseas or in Australia, allow employment.