Visa and Welfare
Studying in Australia, step by step
School-age students need a Student visa (subclass 500). A parent or relative who will care for the child may apply for a Student Guardian visa (subclass 590) at the same time.
Your child needs a Confirmation of Enrolment from PBS, health insurance (OSHC), approved welfare arrangements, health checks and evidence of funds.
Applications from school students currently receive the fastest processing priority. Every application is still assessed on its own merits.
Honesty is essential. All documents and answers must be true and in your family's own words.
The six steps to PBS
- 1. Discover
- 2. Plan and budget
- 3. Apply
- 4. Visa and welfare
- 5. Get ready
- 6. Thrive
- 1. Discover. Explore PBS, watch our videos and book a free consultation.
- 2. Plan and budget. Review your cost estimate and care option. Complete the readiness check.
- 3. Apply. Fill in the application and upload the documents on your checklist.
- 4. Visa and welfare. Prepare your visa documents. Our Sydney team checks your file before you lodge.
- 5. Get ready. Complete the pre-departure course and send your flight details.
- 6. Thrive. Welcome to the Pal family. Follow your child's progress here.
Myth or fact?
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| "An agent can guarantee a visa." | No one can guarantee a visa. Only the Australian Government decides. |
| "Paying more makes the visa faster." | Processing priority is set by government rules, not by payment to an agent. |
| "A guardian visa lets the parent work." | A guardian visa generally does not allow work. |
| "Small changes to bank papers don't matter." | False documents can lead to refusal and a ban on future visas. |
General information only, as of [date]. Visa rules change. Check the Australian Department of Home Affairs website or ask our team.