Being granted a student visa in Australia is not easy, so if you are one of the lucky ones, don’t mess it up! Different types of student visas have different conditions, but one thing is the same: break the rules and you could be sent home!
A student visa can be a brilliant first step in your migration strategy for PR, so if you’re planning on staying indefinitely, play it safe! Let’s have a look at some common student visa rules that probably apply to you.
Attend your classes:
As a student, you are expected to attend a high percentage of your classes. If you are often absent without an accepted reason, you could be kicked out of the course and kicked out of the country! Remember, missing class to go to work is not a valid excuse. On a student visa study comes first, work comes second.
Complete assessments:
Just showing up to class is not enough. You should be engaged with your classes, and demonstrate your learning by submitting assessments on time. If you fail some assessments, talk to your teacher about how to improve. Students who don’t care about their studies often have problems with future visa applications.
Respect the work limit*:
Australia is one of a few countries that actually allow international students to work. The limit on work hours is there to ensure you prioritise your studies, not your job. International students often want to work as many hours as possible so they can earn more money and experience, but while on a Student Visa your priority must be your studies!
Be good:
All immigrants must follow Australian laws whilst they are here. Breaking the law, even if you think you have a good reason, can result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation. In addition, the way you act reflects on other people from your country, and by being a good representative you are helping pave the way for those who come after you.
Read the fine print:
Your visa comes with conditions, and it is your responsibility to know and understand them. When it comes to your visa, your behaviour counts. If you see others breaking rules, that’s no excuse for you to do the same. Don’t let someone else’s actions put your migration journey at risk.
The consequences of breaking visa conditions can be severe. Depending on your situation, your visa could be cancelled and future applications in Australia, and other countries, could be impacted. You may even be banned from Australia for several years or for life!
Our advice? Follow the rules and enjoy the journey! If studying is not your priority, let’s analyse other visa options that are more aligned with what you want from your experience in Australia.
Don’t understand your visa conditions? Contact 4Migration to find out which rules apply to you, and how to make the most of your time in Australia without pushing the boundaries.