Visa Processing Update (2026)

Improving visa processing times

Australia continues to process visa applications through a structured system based on application volumes, processing priorities and individual circumstances.

For Student visa (Subclass 500) applications lodged outside Australia, processing priorities are currently guided by Ministerial Direction 115 (MD115) for applications lodged from 14 November 2025. The Department aims to commence processing:

• Priority 1: within 1–4 weeks

• Priority 2: within 5–8 weeks

• Priority 3: within 9–12 weeks

These are processing-priority targets, not guaranteed visa decision times. Applications may take longer depending on application volumes, completeness, identity, health and character checks, and other requirements.

The Department recommends lodging applications well before your course starts and providing all required documents at the time of application.

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What this means for you

• Complete applications help avoid unnecessary delays. Make sure your documents and information are accurate and complete before lodging.

• Processing times vary. The Department's online processing-time guide provides an indication based on recently decided applications. It is not a guarantee for individual applications.

• Requests for information matter. Regularly check your ImmiAccount and respond promptly if the Department requests additional information or documents.

• Apply early. Do not rely on a fixed 6–8 week timeframe. Allow sufficient time before your intended course commencement date.

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Latest advice on Student Visa (Subclass 500)

 

• Students must be enrolled in an eligible course and hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) when the visa is decided.

• Student visa applications can be lodged online in or outside Australia through ImmiAccount, subject to the relevant visa requirements.

• Offshore applications are currently processed according to Ministerial Direction 115. Priority levels are based on government policy and the education provider's circumstances.

• The Department's current processing-time guide should be used instead of relying on a fixed number of weeks.

• Applicants should ensure they meet all requirements, including OSHC, financial capacity, Genuine Student requirements and health and character requirements, where applicable.

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TIP

Apply as early as possible and prepare your documents carefully. Your application may include your CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, Genuine Student information, passport and health/character documents, depending on your circumstances.

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Work & Study After Arrival

Student visa holders can generally:

• Work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session.

• Work unlimited hours when their course is not in session, subject to their visa conditions.

• Students undertaking a master's by research or doctoral degree may have different work rights.

Always check your individual visa conditions through VEVO, as conditions can vary.

 

Latest advice on Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) allows eligible international graduates to temporarily live, work and study in Australia after completing their studies.

Current key requirements include:

• Generally, applicants must be 35 years or under when applying. Exceptions apply for certain applicants, including some master's research, doctoral and Hong Kong/British National Overseas passport holders.

• Applicants must have held a Student visa within the previous 6 months and completed an eligible qualification from a CRICOS-registered course.

• You must apply for the appropriate stream based on your qualification and circumstances.

• The Post-Higher Education Work stream is generally available to graduates with eligible degree-level qualifications and usually allows a stay of 2–3 years, depending on the qualification.

• The Post-Vocational Education Work stream is for eligible graduates with associate degrees, diplomas or trade qualifications related to an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.

• Processing times vary. Home Affairs recommends using the current visa processing-time guide rather than relying on a fixed timeframe.

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Important

Visa requirements and processing arrangements can change. Students should always check the latest information on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website before lodging a visa application.

This information is general guidance only and does not constitute migration advice.