If you’re living in Australia on a student visa and your time is almost up, it can feel a bit stressful. You’ve likely built a life here–your friends, classes, routines–and you probably don’t want it all to stop just because your visa is running out. That’s where Australian Onshore Migration Services come in. These services help students like you stay longer by applying for a new visa without having to leave the country.
Let’s break it down into simple steps and explain what’s really going on behind the scenes.
I. Why You Can’t Just “Extend” Your Student Visa
A lot of people think they can just add more time to their visa, but that’s not how it works. If your Student Visa (Subclass 500) is about to expire, you don’t extend it. Instead, you apply for a brand-new one while still staying in Australia. This process is called an onshore application, and it’s pretty much the same as the one you did before coming here.
But here’s the catch: you need to start early. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply.
II. Things To Check Before You Apply
Before anything else, look at your current visa. Does it have a “no further stay” condition? If it does, you can’t apply for another visa while you’re in Australia. That’s something you’ll have to deal with separately.
If your visa already expired, don’t panic right away. The government usually gives a 28-day grace period. That means you can still apply within that window. But after those 28 days? Your stay becomes unlawful, and that can cause serious problems. So, the sooner you apply, the better.
III. The Importance Of The GTE Statement
Every student visa application needs something called a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. This is a letter that explains why you want to stay in Australia. It should be honest and clear. You’ll need to say things like:
- Why you didn’t choose to study in your home country
- What benefits do you see in staying here temporarily
- How this course fits into your career goals
- That you plan to follow all the visa rules
You’ll also need to show documents that back up what you say in the letter. This could include past school records, bank statements, or anything else that supports your story.
IV. Showing Proof You Can Support Yourself
Depending on where you’re from and what school you’re going to, you might need to show that you have enough money. This is to prove you can pay for your tuition, daily needs, and travel while you’re living in Australia. If your family is with you, you’ll need to include them too.
Here’s a quick look at the basic costs they’ll want you to show:
- Living expenses for you: about $21,000 for 12 months
- Spouse or partner: around $7,300
- Each child: about $4,100
- First-year tuition fees: usually $20,000
- Health cover: about $1,200
- Airfare: roughly $2,000
Keep in mind, these numbers can change, and not everyone has to show proof. It all depends on your situation.
V. Step-By-Step: How Onshore Visa Services in Australia Work
When working with Onshore Visa Services in Australia, the process becomes easier, but here’s a general idea of how things go:
- Document Checklist: You get a list of everything you need to collect.
- Offer Letter and COE: If required, this comes next.
- GTE Statement: This step takes a few hours, especially if your case is complex.
- OSHC Health Cover: If yours expired or you don’t have one, it must be renewed.
- Lodge Your Visa Application: Usually done through a registered office.
- Get a Bridging Visa A (BVA): This lets you stay legally in Australia while waiting for a decision.
- Medical Exams: You may be asked to do these, depending on your case.
- Wait for Visa Grant: Once approved, you’re good to go.
If you plan to travel while holding a Bridging Visa A, you’ll need to apply for a Bridging Visa B before leaving. If you don’t, you may not be allowed back into the country.
VI. Why Immigration Consultancy in Australia Makes A Difference
Doing this on your own can feel like trying to solve a big puzzle. Immigration rules aren’t always easy to understand. That’s why working with an Immigration Consultancy in Australia can help. They know the process and can help make sure you don’t miss anything.
From making sure your GTE is strong to gathering the right documents, a good consultant takes the stress off your shoulders. They also deal with all the emails and updates from immigration, so you don’t have to worry about missing anything important.
Don’t Leave It Too Late
One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting until the last moment. There’s paperwork, appointments, and sometimes delays. If you wait too long, you might end up in a tight spot or even have to leave the country.
If your visa is running out and you want to stay, now’s the time to start looking at your options.
Let’s Keep You Moving Forward
Need help sorting out your next steps for staying in Australia? Talk to our team at Unique Education and Migration Services. We offer support with Australian Onshore Migration Services, Onshore Visa Services in Australia, and all things related to Immigration Consultancy in Australia. We know what to look for and how to help you feel confident about your next move. Reach out today to get started.