Work begins after the course starts

The Department of Home Affairs states that student visa holders and their family members cannot work before the student's course begins. Check the individual visa grant letter and VEVO because the conditions attached to a visa control what the holder can do.

Understand the in-session limit

The official subclass 500 page states that most students can work up to 48 hours a fortnight while the course is in session. Different settings apply to masters by research and doctoral students. Course breaks and family member conditions should be checked against the current official guidance and the visa conditions.

Study remains the main purpose

Work availability should not be used as the basis for an unaffordable study plan. Visa holders must continue to meet course and visa conditions. Employers must also follow Australian workplace law.

Maintain OSHC

Student visa applicants generally need Overseas Student Health Cover for themselves and accompanying dependants for the required period, unless an exemption applies. Avoid gaps when more than one provider arranges cover or when travel begins before the course.

Record the policy information

Keep the insurer name, policy number where applicable, and start and end dates. If circumstances or travel dates change, check whether the coverage period remains suitable. Use Home Affairs and the insurer for current requirements and cover details.