STUDENT VISA

  If you’re an international student in Australia, the Student Visa (subclass 500) doesn’t just allow you to study — it also gives you the opportunity to work while you learn. This can help you support your living expenses, gain local experience, and make connections in Australia’s workforce.

Here’s everything you need to know about working on a student visa in 2025:

How Many Hours Can I Work?

Most student visa holders are allowed to work:

• Up to 48 hours per fortnight (14 days) while their course is in session

• Unlimited hours during official study breaks or holidays

If you’re enrolled in a Master’s by Research or Doctoral degree (PhD), you can usually work full-time throughout the entire duration of your course, regardless of study periods.

When Can I Start Working?

You can only start working after your course has officially started, as listed on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). If you start work before this date, you may breach visa condition 8105, which could affect your visa status.

What Is Condition 8105?

Condition 8105 is automatically applied to most student visas. It includes:

• No work before your course starts

• Work limited to 48 hours per fortnight while classes are in session

• Unlimited hours during scheduled holidays

• Exceptions apply if your work is a registered part of your course (e.g. internships or placements)

How Is “48 Hours per Fortnight” Calculated?

A fortnight is defined as a fixed 14-day period starting on a Monday. This is not averaged across your course — exceeding the limit during any fortnight may be considered a breach.

When Is My Course Considered “Out of Session”?

You’re allowed unlimited work hours when your course is officially out of session. This includes:

• Between semesters or study periods

• During holiday breaks listed by your education provider

• After you’ve completed your course, but your student visa is still valid

• Between two packaged courses (e.g. from English to diploma or bachelor level)

Can Immigration Check My Work Hours?

Yes. Immigration has access to tax records and may contact your employer or the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to verify your hours. If you exceed your work limit, you risk visa cancellation for breaching your conditions.

Can My Partner Work Too?

Yes — if your partner (dependent) is included in your student visa:

• They can usually work up to 48 hours per fortnight once your course has started

• If you’re studying a Master’s or Doctorate, your partner may be allowed to work unlimited hours

Always check your individual visa grant notice for their specific work rights.

What About Bridging Visas?

If you’re on a Bridging Visa while waiting for a new visa (such as from a Working Holiday or Student Visa), your work rights will usually mirror those of your previous visa. You can check your conditions through VEVO or on your visa grant letter.

Can I Work With an ABN?

Yes. As a student visa holder, you can register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and work as a contractor or freelancer — as long as you stay within your work hour limits and follow tax rules.

How Can I Check My Work Conditions?

There are two easy ways:

• Visa Grant Notice – check the conditions listed

• VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) – use the official tool to view your visa status and conditions

Final Tips

• Always check your education provider’s holiday calendar

• Keep records of your work hours

• Prioritise your studies, as your visa is granted primarily for education

Need help understanding your work rights or balancing work with study? We are here to help guide you through your study journey in Australia.