Can my family come with me on an Australian student visa?

Yes, your immediate family members can come to Australia with you on a student visa, provided you meet certain conditions.

Who qualifies as a dependent:
- Your spouse or de facto partner (including same-sex partners)
- Your dependent children under 18 (or older if they are still dependent on you)

Work rights for dependents:
- Spouses/partners of students enrolled in a masters or doctoral degree: unlimited work rights (no hours restriction)
- Spouses/partners of students in other courses: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
- Dependent children: generally not eligible to work

How to bring them:
Dependents can either be included on your initial student visa application or apply to join you in Australia later using a student dependent visa (also subclass 500). They will need their own visa application with supporting documents.

Documents required for dependents:
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, evidence of de facto relationship)
- Health insurance (OSHC must cover dependents — family OSHC is more expensive)
- Health and character clearances
- Evidence they meet school enrolment requirements (children must be enrolled in a registered school in Australia)

Cost considerations: OSHC for a family costs significantly more than single cover — typically AUD 3,000–5,000+ per year depending on family size and provider.

Children who accompany student visa holders can attend Australian schools. In some states, children of international students may be charged international school fees, though some states offer government school places at reduced or no cost.

Speak to a MARA-registered migration agent to ensure your dependent applications are structured correctly.