Australia Passport and Visa Information

Passport

To study abroad, you must have a signed, valid passport from your country of citizenship that will not expire for a minimum of six months after your planned return date. If you do not have a passport, or it's about to expire, make sure you apply or renew as soon as possible! U.S. Citizens can refer to the U.S. Department of State’s website for more information about passports and processing time.

Visa

A student visa is official permission by a foreign government to live and study in that country. All U.S. passport holders studying in Australia must obtain a student visa prior to departure. The visa process is completed online and you will not receive a visa label to put in your passport. When you go through immigration, the official will see your visa status when they scan your passport. The Australian Embassy will contact yearlong students via email if there are any additional document requirements.

Further information will be posted to your USAC Student Gateway account in the Visa Guide, which you will receive about four months prior to the program start. Program Advisors in the Central Office are also available to answer any visa questions you may have.

All costs related to obtaining a visa, including travel, are your responsibility. Fees are subject to change and remain at the discretion of the Australian government.

Non-U.S. citizens

Check with your home country consulate, as well as the embassy of the country in which you plan to study, regarding visa requirements. Permanent Residents of the U.S. should check with U.S. Immigration as leaving the country for more than one year may jeopardize permanent resident status. Tax clearance and re-entry forms may also be necessary in these cases.