VISA

Visa processing update (2025–2026)

​

Improving visa processing times

​

Australia continues to work on improving visa processing times, including for student visas. While specific staffing numbers aren’t publicly updated, the Australian Department of Home Affairs regularly monitors and reports processing time trends and encourages applicants to submit complete applications to ensure faster decisions.
Official median processing times for key visa categories in December 2025 show that student visa applications are generally processing faster than many other temporary visas.

​

​Processing times depend heavily on how complete your application is when you lodge it. Missing documents or incomplete information will slow your application down or trigger requests for further information.

​

What this means for you

​

• Complete applications get processed faster. Be sure to include all supporting documents before lodging your application.
   

• If the Department needs more information, you’ll receive a Request for Information (RFI) in your ImmiAccount. Respond as soon as possible to avoid delays or refusal.

​

What you need to do

​

• Apply early — lodge your student visa at least 6–8 weeks before your course start date.

• Check ImmiAccount regularly — important updates (like RFIs) will be sent there.

• Respond quickly to any requests for additional information or documents.
  If you need more time to gather required documents, request an extension of time via ImmiAccount before the deadline and include evidence of your efforts (e.g. booking confirmations or receipts).

​

​

​

​

Latest advice on Student Visa (Subclass 500)

​

• Students should first enrol in an education provider, then lodge a Student Visa (Subclass 500) application.

• Many student visa decisions are made within 4–12 weeks, but processing can vary depending on document quality, peak periods, and whether the application is lodged onshore or offshore.

• Processing priorities are influenced by Ministerial Direction 115, which affects how student visas are managed for applications lodged after 14 November 2025.

• Visa processing is generally faster for complete applications lodged online through ImmiAccount.

• Incomplete applications take significantly longer or may be refused.

​

TIP

​

Apply early and combine your documents (COE, OSHC, financial evidence, Genuine Student statement, passport, health/character checks) to avoid delays.

​

Work & Study After Arrival

​

• Student visa holders usually can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, as per visa conditions.

• Students currently studying online or offshore without a student visa are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure their eligibility for future travel or post-study visas.

​

​

​

Latest advice on Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

​

• You must apply within 6 months of your course completion date.

• The length of stay typically ranges from ~1 to ~3 months for processing, but 90% of applications can take up to 3–8 months depending on your stream.

• This visa allows you to live and work in Australia after graduation — an important pathway for work experience and career building.​

​