Planning to study in Australia and wondering if your spouse can join you on this journey? The answer is a resounding yes! With the Spouse Visa Australia, officially known as the Student Dependent Visa (Subclass 500), your partner can live with you while you pursue your education. This visa not only allows your spouse to stay with you but may also grant work rights, depending on your course level.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything Indian students need to know about bringing their spouse to Australia in 2025—from visa eligibility and documentation to work rights and financial planning.
Why Study Abroad with Spouse Visa Australia?
Choosing to study abroad with your spouse has its perks. It transforms a challenging academic journey into a shared experience, easing homesickness and building emotional resilience.
Having your partner by your side can make adjusting to a new country, culture, and education system far more manageable. Whether you’re attending the University of Melbourne or Monash University, you’ll feel more supported with your loved one around.
Emotional and Practical Benefits
- Emotional support during exams and stressful periods
- Shared expenses, especially for accommodation and food
- Easier adaptation to cultural norms
- Joint travel and exploration of Australian cities
Even though the Australia spouse visa requirements include proof of marriage and financial capability, many Indian students find the effort worthwhile due to the immense personal benefits.
What Is the Student Dependent Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Student Dependent Visa (Subclass 500) allows the spouse or dependent children of an international student to join them in Australia. This visa, often called the student spouse visa Australia, is linked to the primary student’s Subclass 500 visa. As a result, its validity aligns with the duration of the student’s course, typically ranging from 2 to 5 years. To apply, the primary applicant must be enrolled in a full-time course at a CRICOS-registered Australian institution. The Australia spouse visa requirements include proving a genuine relationship through documents like a marriage certificate, joint financial statements, or photos.
According to the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs, as of July 1, 2024, the visa application fee for the primary student (Subclass 500) is AUD 1,600. For a spouse or dependent aged 18 and over, the fee is AUD 1,190, and for dependents under 18, it’s AUD 390. You’ll also need to demonstrate financial capacity—approximately AUD 24,505 per year for a spouse, as per the updated living cost requirements for 2025. Additionally, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for both the student and dependents to cover medical needs during their stay.
Spouse Visa Australia: Processing Time & Cost
Processing times can vary significantly depending on the completeness of your application and current embassy workloads. According to the Department of Home Affairs, as of February 2025, the spouse visa Australia processing time for a Student Dependent Visa (Subclass 500) is typically between 61 days to several months, with 90% of applications processed within 5 months. However, this can vary based on factors like application volume, completeness of documents, and whether additional checks (e.g., medical exams) are required.
It’s advisable to apply early and submit all required documents to avoid delays.
Who Is Eligible?
To bring your spouse to Australia, you must be:
- Enrolled in a full-time course (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
- Financially capable of supporting your partner
- Legally married or in a de facto relationship (proof required)
Your spouse, in turn, must pass health and character requirements and secure proper health insurance.
Challenges Faced by Married Indian Students
Despite the benefits, Indian students studying in Australia with a spouse face unique challenges.
Cultural and Emotional Struggles
Transitioning to Australian life can be overwhelming. Your spouse may face:
- Difficulty finding suitable jobs
- Social isolation or lack of networking opportunities
- Homesickness during festivals like Diwali or Holi
Financial Pressure
With only one steady income at first, financial strain is common. Also, cities like Sydney and Melbourne can be expensive, increasing living costs for couples.
However, with proper planning and the right support networks, these hurdles can be overcome.
Financial Planning Tips for Couples
Finances play a critical role in managing life abroad. Before applying for a spouse visa in Australia, you should budget wisely.
Key Financial Factors:
- Tuition Fees: AUD 25,000–45,000 per year (varies by course)
- Monthly Rent (for couples): AUD 1,500–2,500
- Health Insurance (per year): AUD 1,200–1,800
- Miscellaneous Expenses: AUD 800–1,200 per month
Tips to Manage Costs:
- Opt for shared accommodation or university housing
- Shop at local markets instead of supermarkets
- Apply for scholarships to reduce tuition burden
- Use budgeting apps like Splitwise and Mint
Comparison of Living Costs in Australian Cities
| City | Monthly Cost for Couple (AUD) | Popular Universities |
| Sydney | 2,800–3,800 | University of Sydney |
| Melbourne | 2,500–3,500 | University of Melbourne |
| Brisbane | 2,200–3,000 | University of Queensland |
| Perth | 2,000–2,800 | University of Western Australia |
Work Rights with Spouse Visa Australia
One of the biggest advantages of the Australian Spouse Visa is the work entitlement it offers to your spouse.
| Course Type | Spouse Work Rights |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 48 hours per fortnight |
| Master’s/PhD | Unlimited work rights |
| Vocational Education & Training | 48 hours per fortnight |
If you’re enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program, your spouse can work full-time without restrictions—making it one of the most attractive aspects of the student spouse visa Australia.
Job Opportunities for Spouses
Although finding work as a dependent on the Australia spouse visa may take time, several opportunities are available:
Common Jobs for Spouses:
- Retail assistant
- Customer service roles
- Hospitality (cafés, restaurants)
- Data entry or admin support
Platforms like SEEK, Indeed, and LinkedIn can help spouses explore options. Attending community events and university job fairs also increases networking opportunities.
Upskilling Opportunities
Your spouse can also enroll in short-term courses (language, IT, or vocational training) to improve job prospects—this is especially helpful for long-term planning or applying for permanent residency later.
Checklist Before Applying for Spouse Visa Australia
To ensure a smooth visa application process, make sure you’ve covered all requirements:
✅ Enrolment Confirmation (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered Australian institution
✅ Proof of relationship (marriage certificate or de facto evidence)
✅ Passport and identity documents
✅ Proof of financial stability (around AUD 24,505 for the spouse)
✅ Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for both partners
✅ Visa application fee payment (AUD 1,190 for spouse)
✅ Statement of purpose and GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) letter
Consulting a migration agent or educational consultant can make the process easier and reduce errors.
FAQs on Spouse Visa Australia
- Can my spouse work in Australia with a student visa?
Yes. If you’re pursuing a Master’s or PhD, your spouse can work full-time. For undergraduate or diploma courses, it’s limited to 48 hours per fortnight. - What are the Australia spouse visa requirements?
You need a valid marriage certificate, proof of funds, confirmation of enrolment, health insurance, and identification documents. - What is the spouse visa Australia processing time?
The average processing time ranges from 61 days to 5 months, depending on application volume and document verification. - Is it easy to find a job for my spouse in Australia?
Finding a job can take time. While part-time roles in retail or hospitality are common, professional roles may require local qualifications or networking. - What is the cost of living for couples in Australia?
On average, couples need AUD 2,500–3,500 per month to cover rent, food, transport, and miscellaneous expenses.
Conclusion
Bringing your spouse to Australia while studying is a valuable opportunity that combines academic growth with emotional and life partnership. The Spouse Visa Australia opens doors for Indian couples to stay together during one of life’s most transformative phases.
Despite the financial and cultural challenges, the shared journey enriches both personal and professional experiences. By understanding the Australia spouse visa requirements, planning ahead, and making informed choices, you can make your dream of studying in Australia with your spouse a successful reality.
