Student visa (subclass 500): photo and application guide
Full-time study at an Australian education provider registered on the CRICOS list, for the duration of the course up to 5 years.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · AUD $1,600 base fee · biometrics at VAC
Photo specification is the shared Home Affairs 35 × 45 mm format. Biometric capture at the VAC for most nationalities. Fee AUD $1,600 base fee + dependent fees. Processing 50% within 4 weeks; 90% within 5 months. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Full name | Subclass 500 Student Visa |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Full-time study at an Australian education provider registered on the CRICOS list, for the duration of the course up to 5 years. |
| Application route | ImmiAccount online application with Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) |
| Fee | AUD $1,600 base fee + dependent fees |
| Processing time | 50% within 4 weeks; 90% within 5 months |
| Biometric appointment | Yes for most nationalities — at a VAC |
| Official portal | Home Affairs — Student visa (subclass 500) ↗ |
Photo specification
The Student visa (subclass 500) uses the shared Home Affairs biometric photo standard. The same photo file works for the ImmiAccount upload and the printed copy at the VAC.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 32 to 36 mm chin to crown chin to crown |
| Background | plain light grey or off-white, even illumination |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed (no smile preferred) |
| Glasses | Discouraged; remove for the shot |
| Digital file | JPEG, minimum 900 × 1200 pixels |
What to watch out for with the Student visa (subclass 500)
The Student visa requires Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration of the visa. The biometric photo is reused on the Australian Permanent Resident card if the holder later applies for PR through a graduate work or skilled migration route. Plan for an enduring image.
Frequently asked questions about the Student visa (subclass 500)
What size photo do I need for a Student visa (subclass 500)?
35 × 45 mm portrait. The Student visa (subclass 500) uses the shared Home Affairs biometric photo: head 32 to 36 mm chin to crown, plain light background, neutral expression.
How much does the Student visa (subclass 500) cost?
AUD $1,600 base fee + dependent fees.
How long does the Student visa (subclass 500) take to process?
50% within 4 weeks; 90% within 5 months.
Is biometric capture mandatory for the Student visa (subclass 500)?
Yes for most nationalities — at a VAC. The biometric capture happens at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Can I use the same photo for an Australian passport later?
Yes if you become an Australian citizen and apply for an Australian passport. The DFAT passport specification (35 × 45 mm) matches the Home Affairs visa specification. The photo is interchangeable across these documents.
Other Australian visa categories
Prepare your Student visa (subclass 500) photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro applies the Home Affairs 35 × 45 mm format automatically.