What happens if my Australian student visa expires? A student visa allows you to stay in Australia while you study. This visa is called the Subclass 500. It is usually granted for the length of your course, plus a little extra time. That extra time is usually one to two months after your course ends. This gives you time to get ready to leave or apply for another visa.
But what if you want to stay in Australia after your visa expires? This is a common question for international students. The answer depends on your situation. Let’s explore your options.
Can I Stay in Australia After My Student Visa Expires?
The short answer is no—you cannot legally stay in Australia after your visa expires unless you take action. If you stay without a valid visa, it is called overstaying. Overstaying is a serious problem. It can lead to being banned from returning to Australia for several years.
However, there are legal ways to extend your stay. You just have to make sure you apply for another visa before your current one expires. If your visa has already expired, you still have some options, but you must act fast.
How Much Time Do I Have After My Visa Expires?
If your visa has expired, you have very limited time. Australia does not give a grace period like some other countries. Once your visa expires, you are considered an unlawful non-citizen. This means you are staying in the country without permission.
But the Department of Home Affairs understands that mistakes happen. That’s why they have a special visa called the Bridging Visa E (BVE). This visa is for people whose visas have already expired. It allows you to stay in Australia while you make plans to leave or apply for another visa.
To avoid problems, it is best to apply for another visa before your student visa expires. That way, you may be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA), which is more flexible and less risky.
What Is a Bridging Visa?
A bridging visa is a temporary visa. It lets you stay in Australia while your new visa application is being processed. There are several types of bridging visas, but the most common ones for students are:
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
Bridging Visa B (BVB)
Bridging Visa E (BVE)
The BVA is given when you apply for a new visa before your student visa ends. It allows you to stay legally in Australia. The BVB is similar, but it also allows you to leave and return to Australia. The BVE is for people who apply after their visa has already expired. It helps you avoid being detained or deported while you sort out your situation.
What Are My Visa Options After My Student Visa?
If you want to stay longer in Australia, you need to apply for a new visa. There are several choices, depending on what you want to do next.
1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This is the most popular visa for students who finish their studies. It allows you to live and work in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on your qualification. You must apply within 6 months of finishing your course. You also need to have held a student visa in the last 6 months.
To get this visa, your course must be registered under CRICOS and meet the Australian Study Requirement. You must also have a recent English test and health insurance.
2. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
If you want to stay in Australia for a short time after finishing your studies, you can apply for a visitor visa. This lets you stay for up to 12 months, but most people get 3 or 6 months.
You cannot work on this visa, but you can travel around Australia or prepare for your next move. This visa is good for students who need time to relax or apply for jobs in their home country.
3. Student Visa (Subclass 500 – New Course)
If you want to study another course in Australia, you can apply for a new student visa. This is common for people who finish a diploma and want to start a degree or take a higher-level course.
To apply, you must get a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider. You also need to meet financial and English language requirements again.
4. Partner Visa
If you are in a serious relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may be able to apply for a partner visa. This allows you to stay while the application is being processed.
You must prove that your relationship is real and ongoing. This visa process takes time and requires strong evidence, but many international students follow this path after graduation.
5. Skilled Visa (Subclass 189, 190, or 491)
If you have skills that Australia needs, you can apply for a skilled migration visa. These visas are based on points. You get points for your age, English skills, qualifications, and work experience.
To apply, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. You also need to have your skills assessed and get an invitation to apply.
This visa can lead to permanent residency. Many students move from a 485 visa to a skilled visa once they gain work experience.
What If I Do Nothing and Overstay?
If you do not apply for another visa and your student visa expires, you will become unlawful. This is very risky. Here’s what can happen:
You may be detained by immigration authorities.
You may be removed (deported) from Australia.
You may receive a re-entry ban of 3 years or more.
You may have problems applying for visas in the future.
It’s important to get help if your visa has already expired. You can speak to a registered migration agent or contact the Department of Home Affairs.
What Should I Do Before My Visa Expires?
The best way to avoid problems is to plan ahead. Here are some steps to follow:
Check your visa expiry date. You can find it on your visa grant letter or by using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service.
Decide what you want to do next. Do you want to work, study more, or take a break?
Gather documents early. Different visas need different documents. Start collecting them before your current visa ends.
Apply before your visa expires. This gives you the best chance of getting a Bridging Visa A, which keeps you lawful.
Ask for help if needed. A migration agent or education counselor can help you choose the right path.
Can I Leave Australia and Come Back After My Visa Expires?
If your visa has expired and you leave Australia, it may be hard to come back. If you overstayed, even for a short time, you could face a re-entry ban. This depends on how long you overstayed and whether you left voluntarily.
If you want to return to Australia later, it’s better to leave before your visa expires or apply for a new visa while you are still in the country. Always check with the Department of Home Affairs before making travel plans.
Can I Stay and Work While Waiting for My New Visa?
Yes, in most cases. If you apply for a new visa before your student visa ends, and you get a Bridging Visa A, you can usually stay and work under the same conditions as your old visa. If you apply for a graduate visa, you may be able to work full-time once your studies are complete.
But if you wait too long and apply after your visa expires, you may get a Bridging Visa E, which usually does not allow you to work. This visa is very limited and should only be used in emergencies.
Conclusion
Staying in Australia after your student visa ends is possible, but you must follow the rules. Never wait until your visa expires to act. You have many options, such as the graduate visa, visitor visa, or a new student visa.
Always plan early, check your visa details, and speak to a professional if you’re unsure. By acting early, you can avoid stress and stay legally in Australia while you figure out your future.
If your visa has already expired, do not panic. Contact immigration services or a migration agent as soon as possible. With the right help, you can fix your situation and stay on track.
