Studying in Australia is a dream for many Nepalese students. Along with quality education and better career opportunities, many students also want to stay connected with their families. Because of this, the Australian Government allows eligible student visa holders to bring their spouse and children to Australia through the Student Subsequent Entrant Visa under Subclass 500.
This visa helps families stay together while the main applicant studies in Australia. However, the process requires proper planning, correct documents, and enough financial preparation.
What is the Student Subsequent Entrant Visa?
The Student Subsequent Entrant Visa allows family members of an international student to join them in Australia during their studies.
Eligible family members include:
• Husband or wife
• De facto partner
• Dependent children under 18 years
A de facto relationship means you and your partner have lived together in a genuine relationship for at least 12 months.
Important Rule You Must Know
The main student must declare all family members in the original student visa application, even if they are not travelling immediately.
If family members are not declared earlier, future dependent visa applications may become difficult or even impossible.
When Can Dependents Apply?
There are two options.
1. Apply Together
The student and dependents apply at the same time.
This option is useful if:
• The family wants to travel together
• Financial documents are ready
• Housing and planning are already arranged
2. Apply Later as a Subsequent Entrant
The student travels first and starts studying in Australia. Later, the spouse or children apply from Nepal.
Many Nepalese students choose this option because it gives time to:
• Arrange accommodation
• Understand living expenses
• Settle into study life first
Simple Application Process
The process usually follows these steps:
Gather Documents → Create ImmiAccount → Submit Visa Application → Pay Visa Fees → Biometrics & Medical Tests → DHA Assessment
Most applications are processed within 2 to 5 months, although timelines can vary.
Latest Visa Fees (2026)
Recent updates have changed Australian student visa charges.
Student Visa (Subclass 500) Charges
| Applicant Type | Visa Fee (AUD) |
| Primary Student | AUD 1,600 |
| Dependent Adult (18+) | AUD 1,170 |
| Child Under 18 | AUD 390 |
Besides visa fees, applicants must also pay for:
• OSHC health insurance
• Medical examinations
• Biometrics
• English tests (if required)
Financial Requirements for Nepalese Applicants
The Department of Home Affairs carefully checks financial documents from Nepal. Therefore, funds must be genuine, traceable, and properly documented.
Minimum Living Cost Requirement (2026)
| Applicant | Required Funds (AUD per year) |
| Main Student | AUD 29,710 |
| Spouse/Partner | AUD 10,394 |
| Each Child | AUD 4,449 |
If children are school-aged, additional school fees may also apply. In many states, this can range from AUD 6,000 to AUD 12,000 per year.
Best Financial Documents to Show
The strongest financial evidence usually includes:
• Bank savings
• Fixed deposits
• Education loans from recognized banks
• Income documents
• Tax records
Avoid:
• Sudden large deposits
• Unexplained cash transfers
• Informal loans
These can increase refusal risk.
Documents Required
A strong application should include the following documents.
Identity Documents
• Valid passports
• Citizenship certificates if needed
• Recent photographs
Relationship Proof
For married couples:
• Official marriage certificate
• Wedding photos
• Communication history
For de facto partners:
• Joint bank account
• Shared rental agreements
• Bills or documents showing shared living
Student Documents
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Student visa grant letter
• University admission documents
Health Insurance
Dependents must be included in the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy.
Usually, students upgrade from:
• Single OSHC → Couple or Family OSHC
Genuine Student Requirement
Australia now uses the Genuine Student (GS) requirement instead of the old GTE system.
Applicants must clearly explain:
• Why they chose Australia
• Why they selected the course
• How the course helps their future career
• Their intention to follow visa rules
Simple and honest explanations work best.
Work Rights for Dependents
Work rights depend on the level of study of the main student.
If the Main Student is Studying a bachelor’s degree
The dependent partner can work:
• Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
• Full-time during official semester breaks
If the Main Student is Studying a master’s or PhD
The dependent partner usually gets:
• Unlimited full-time work rights
These rights start only after the student’s course officially begins.
Study Rights for Dependents
Dependents can study in Australia for up to 3 months.
If they want to study longer, they must apply for their own Student Visa.
Common Questions from Nepalese Students
Can Dependents Apply From Australia?
Yes, if they already hold an eligible visa without a “No Further Stay” condition.
Can My Partner Work Immediately After Arrival?
No. Work rights start only after the main student’s course officially starts.
What Happens if the Student Changes Course?
Changing to a lower qualification level can affect the dependent partner’s work rights and may trigger additional visa checks.
What Happens if the Main Student Visa is Cancelled?
Dependent visas are linked to the main student visa. If the primary visa ends, dependent visas may also become invalid.
Helpful Tips for Nepalese Applicants
Keep Academic Records Strong
Poor attendance or weak academic performance can affect future visa applications.
Prepare Documents Early
Relationship proof, banking documents, and insurance updates often take time.
Maintain Clean Financial Records
Australian immigration carefully reviews financial history from South Asian countries, including Nepal.
Think Long-Term
Your course selection, study location, and qualification level can affect:
• Work rights
• Future visa options
• Post-study opportunities
Final Thoughts
Moving to Australia is not only about education. For many Nepalese students, it is also about building a better future together with family.
With proper financial planning, genuine documentation, and careful preparation, bringing your spouse or children to Australia through the Student Subsequent Entrant Visa can become a smooth process.
For official information, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.