1. The 2026 Financial & Fee Update
As of July 2025, the Australian government increased visa charges significantly. For 2026, you must prepare for the following costs:
| Item | 2026 Cost (AUD) | Note |
| Visa Application Charge | $2,000 | Standard fee for primary applicant. |
| Financial Capacity | $29,710 | Minimum savings you must “show” (Living costs for 12 months). |
| OSHC Extension | $600 – $1,200 | Must cover the full length of your new course. |
| Subsequent Temp. Stay | $700 | Only applies if this is your second onshore visa extension. |
2. Mandatory Document Checklist
In 2026, the Department of Home Affairs uses “Forensic Scrutiny” for onshore extensions. Ensure you have:
- New Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): From your university, covering the extra time needed.
- Genuine Student (GS) Statement: You must answer the 4 new targeted questions (max 150 words each) explaining why you need more time and how it aids your career.
- Updated OSHC: A certificate showing health cover until your new visa’s expiry.
- Academic Transcripts: Proof of “Satisfactory Academic Progress.” If you are extending because you failed subjects, you must provide a medical or personal reason with evidence.
- Financial Evidence: In 2026, students from South Asia (India, Nepal, etc.) are often required to show 3–6 months of stable bank history even for onshore extensions.
3. The Step-by-Step Extension Process
Step 1: Get Your CoE & OSHC (3 Months Out)
Request a new CoE from your university at least 8 weeks before your current visa expires. Simultaneously, contact your insurance provider (Bupa, Allianz, etc.) to extend your OSHC.
Step 2: Lodge via ImmiAccount
Submit your application online. Once you pay the $2,000 fee, you will automatically receive an email with your Bridging Visa A (BVA).
Step 3: The Bridging Visa Period
- The BVA allows you to stay in Australia legally while your new visa is processed.
- It only kicks in after your current visa expires.
- Travel Warning: You cannot leave Australia on a BVA. If you need to travel while waiting, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
4. New 2026 “No Onshore Switching” Rule
A critical change for 2026: Visitor Visa (600) and Graduate Visa (485) holders are generally banned from switching to a Student Visa while inside Australia. This “onshore hopping” ban is strictly enforced to ensure students are genuine. If you are already on a Student Visa (500), you can extend, but switching from a 485 back to a 500 is now virtually impossible onshore.
5. 2026 Processing Times
- Higher Education Sector: 20–35 days.
- VET Sector (Vocational): 45–75 days.
- Postgraduate Research: 15–25 days (Priority).
