Studying in Australia is a dream for many international students — and the good news is, you don’t have to leave your partner behind. With the Australia study visa with spouse, you can bring your husband or wife to Australia while you pursue your degree.
This complete guide covers eligibility, requirements, application process, benefits, costs, and practical tips to help you succeed.
Why Bring Your Spouse on an Australia Study Visa?
Australia welcomes thousands of international students each year. Many students prefer to have their spouse or partner join them for emotional support and shared living expenses.
Key Benefits:
- Live together during your studies
- Spouse may work full-time in some cases
- Better mental well-being
- Opportunity to explore Australia together
Eligibility for Australia Study Visa with Spouse
To bring your spouse, you must meet certain conditions under the Subclass 500 Student Visa.
Main Requirements:
- Be enrolled in a full-time, CRICOS-registered course.
- Provide proof of a genuine relationship (marriage certificate, photos, communication proof).
- Show sufficient funds to support yourself and your spouse.
- Have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for both.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
Eligible dependents include:
- Legally married spouse.
- De facto partner (proof of living together for at least 12 months).
- Dependent children under 18.
Required Documents Checklist
Here’s what you’ll need to include in your application:
- Valid passport for you and your spouse
- Marriage certificate or de facto relationship evidence
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your Australian institution
- Financial proof (bank statements, sponsor letter)
- Health insurance (OSHC)
- Completed visa application forms
- Visa application fee payment receipt
- Health examination results
- Character certificates (police clearance)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for an Australia study visa with spouse:
- Enroll in a CRICOS course
Get your CoE from an approved Australian institution. - Gather Documents
Collect relationship evidence, financial proof, health cover. - Apply Online
Submit the online application on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. - Biometrics & Health Check
Attend health exams and biometrics appointment if required. - Wait for Decision
Processing times vary — usually 1 to 4 months. - Get Visa Grant Notice
Once approved, book your travel and plan your move.
Cost of Bringing a Spouse to Australia
The cost depends on your circumstances. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Student Visa Fee | $710 |
| Dependent Spouse Visa Fee | $530 |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (Annual) | $500–$900 per adult |
| Proof of Funds Required | $21,041/year for student + $7,362/year for spouse |
(Data Source: Australian Government Home Affairs)
Can Your Spouse Work in Australia?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages is that your spouse can work part-time or full-time, depending on your level of study.
- If you’re pursuing a Master’s or PhD, your spouse can work unlimited hours.
- For other courses, they can work up to 40 hours per fortnight.
Benefits & Challenges
Benefits
- Stay together during studies
- Extra income for the family
- Shared living costs
- Opportunity for both partners to build connections
Challenges
- Higher cost of living
- More paperwork
- Additional proof of funds required
- Need strong evidence of genuine relationship
Comparative Table: Student Visa Alone vs With Spouse
| Feature | Student Visa Alone | Student Visa with Spouse |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | Lower | Higher |
| Proof of Funds | Less | More |
| Partner Can Work | No | Yes |
| Living Expenses | Single person | Family expenses |
| Stress Level | Lonely | Emotional support |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Weak relationship evidence
- Not showing sufficient funds
- Not purchasing OSHC for both
- Providing inconsistent information
Tips to Increase Your Approval Chances
- Double-check your documents
- Be honest about your relationship
- Attach clear photos and travel history
- Keep funds ready in a traceable account
- Use a registered migration agent if needed
Internal Link Suggestions
- How to Apply for Australian Universities
- Best Scholarships for Studying in Australia
- Tips for International Students in Australia
External Link Suggestions
5 Unique FAQs About Australia Study Visa with Spouse
1. Can my spouse work full-time while I study in Australia?
Answer: Yes, if you’re studying a Master’s or PhD, your spouse can work full-time. For other courses, they’re limited to 40 hours per fortnight.
2. How long does it take to get an Australia study visa with spouse?
Answer: Processing times range from 1 to 4 months, depending on your application’s complexity and documentation.
3. Can I bring my spouse later after my visa is approved?
Answer: Yes, your spouse can apply later as a subsequent entrant to join you in Australia.
4. Do we need separate OSHC policies?
Answer: You can get a combined OSHC policy for both or separate policies. It’s mandatory for the whole duration.
5. What if my relationship is new?
Answer: If you’re in a de facto relationship, you must prove you’ve lived together for at least 12 months. A newly registered marriage is acceptable with evidence.
Conclusion
Bringing your spouse along while you study in Australia can be life-changing. The Australia study visa with spouse allows you to pursue your academic dreams while enjoying the comfort and support of your partner.
Use this guide to prepare strong documents, understand visa conditions, and avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re planning for 2025 or beyond, starting early and staying informed will help you secure a smooth visa process.
Ready to study in Australia with your spouse? Start planning today and make your dream a reality.
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