Understand the responsibilities of foreign students in the country, what is allowed and what is not
Studying in Australia is increasingly attractive to international students because of the country's renowned educational institutions and future job opportunities. According to Department of Education According to the Australian government, between January and August 2023, the total number of foreign students in the country passed 725 thousand.
Among the countries with the largest number of exchange students in the country, Brazil is in ninth place, with 22,168 international students. But before you jump into your exchange program, it's important to understand the legal obligations involved in the visa approval process and immigration to the land of the kangaroos.
Check out the responsibilities of foreign students when entering the Australian education system and maintaining their visa.
International student responsibilities
With the benefits of Australian laws, which ensure high standards of education, accommodation and assistance services during their stay in the country, international students have guarantees.
The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) also provides financial protection, providing compensation in the event that the educational institution does not fulfill what was agreed.
As an international student, it is essential to choose an educational institution listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
All CRICOS-registered institutions comply with the strict quality standards stipulated by Australian legislation, thus ensuring that they provide the best educational services.
Under Australian law, the educational institution must establish a documented agreement with the student. It is advisable for the international student to read the contract carefully, ensuring full understanding before signing. Before formalizing any claim against the institution, it is advisable to thoroughly review all contractual clauses.
Meeting the requirements of Australia's education and immigration system is another important point for international students looking for opportunities.
Once the visa has been approved, the foreigner must pay attention to the requirements of the visa applied for and the contractual obligations with the educational institution.
Here are a few specific restrictions for international students:
- 8105: work a maximum of 48 hours per 15 days for the duration of the course. During vacations, the workload is unlimited. Work is permitted after the start of studies.
- 8202: remain enrolled at the educational institution, with payments up to date and maintain good academic performance.
- 8501: keep the compulsory health insurance (OSHC) valid for the duration of the visa.
- 8516: continue to meet the criteria for the visa requested.
- 8533: inform the school of your new address within 7 days of arriving in Australia.
For those with families, the conditions are:
- 8104: working hours of 40 hours per 15 days. Only master's students can work unlimited hours during the course and vacation period
- 8501: keep compulsory health insurance (OSHC) valid for the duration of the visa
- 8517: in the case of dependents under the age of 18, the child or adolescent must enter the education system intended for this group
- 8532: ensuring the well-being of minors
- 8516: continue to meet the visa criteria
- 8518: keeping minors enrolled
The next sections will cover the responsibilities of educational agents, educational institutions and the Australian Immigration Department.
Want to be an international student in Australia? Talk to the Good Day team!

