Can I Start a Business on a Student Visa in Australia?

International students often ask questions like:

 

Can I work part-time in Australia on my student visa?

Or

Can I start a business on a student visa in Australia?

 

The answer is yes; you can work part-time and also start a business on a student visa in Australia. But you have to meet certain visa conditions and requirements for your student visa. 

 

Moreover, you must understand the legal framework of operating a business legally on a student visa.  Learn all about starting a business in Australia while studying in this blog post. 

 

Can I Start a Business on a Student Visa in Australia?

Yes, you can start a business in Australia on a student visa. However, there are certain visa conditions that you are required to meet while doing so. Understanding these conditions is essential because they directly impact business activities without breaching your visa terms.

 

One of the student visa conditions mandates you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic semester. However, you will have full-time work rights during the semester breaks. 

 

So, if you want to start business in Australia on a student visa, first make sure you have enough time for operating it effectively. Ask yourself these questions:

 

• What problem would you solve?

• Are there already other businesses operating in the same area?

• Do you have enough time and money to start your business?

• Do you have access to the skills and resources required for your business?

 

Moreover, your business activities shouldn’t interfere with your academic responsibilities. Your primary goal should be to complete your studies effectively in Australia. 

 

So, if you have all the resources, money and time for your business, you can start it on a student visa. But how can you do it legally? Here is the complete process of starting a business in Australia. Continue reading!

 

Step-by-Step Process to Start a Business in Australia on a Student Visa

Here is a step-by-step process to start a business in Australia on a student visa, highlighting key considerations and requirements.

 

• Step 1: Choose a business structure

• Step 2: Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

• Step 3: Follow all the legal requirements

• Step 4: Understand your tax obligations

• Step 5: Maintain your visa conditions

• Step 6: Plan your post-study pathways

 

Here is detailed information on each step.

 

Step 1: Choose a Business Structure

The first step is to choose the right business structure. It is an important step as it affects your tax obligations, liabilities, and operational flexibility.  So, choose your business structure wisely. Here are some of the most common  business structures:

 

• Sole Trader: Sole trader is the simplest structure where you operate as an individual. You can easily set up your business, but remember you have to fulfil all the responsibilities and debts personally. 

 

• Partnership: In partnership, usually two or more people run a business together. It divides the responsibilities and investments among different partners. Moreover, a partnership agreement must be made that outlines the responsibilities of each partner. 

 

• Company: This business structure is more complex as compared to others. It functions as an independent legal entity from its owners (shareholders) and itself is able to sign contracts and take on debt.

 

• Trust: A trust is like a special agreement where one person (the trustee) takes care of money or property for someone else (the beneficiaries). So it is quite complex and tricky and you often require professional assistance in this case.  

 

Step 2: Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)

You must register your business in Australia. Otherwise, your student visa will be affected by it. You must ensure that your business is legally registered to comply with your visa conditions. 

 

For this purpose, an Australian Business Number (ABN) is required. This number acts as an identifier for your business operations with the government and other businesses. 

 

But how can you get an ABN number? Follow these steps to apply for it:

 

• Visit the Australian Business Register (ABR) website and download the application form for registering your business.
• Fill it out correctly and attach the required documents.
• Provide necessary details about your business structure and activities.
• You will receive an ABN number if your application is approved by the Australian Government.

 

Step 3: Follow all the Legal Requirements

You must follow all the Australian laws and regulations to run your business as an international student. You must have knowledge of your tax responsibilities, including GST registration, if your business turnover exceeds AUD 75,000 per year.

 

Make sure that you have sufficient funds for registration fees, marketing expenses and equipment purchases. In addition to this, you must have money for ongoing operations without compromising your tuition fee and living expenses.

 

Step 4: Understand Your Tax Obligations

It is important to understand your tax responsibilities while running your business in Australia. As a business owner, you will follow the taxation laws set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). These obligations include the following: 

 

• If your annual turnover exceeds AUD 75,000, you must register for Goods and Service Tax.
• Ensure you understand when and how to file your tax returns based on your income level.
• You will need to report any income generated from your business activities when filing your tax return.

 

Pro Tip: It’s advisable to consult with an accountant or tax professional who understands Australian tax law to ensure compliance.

 

Step 5: Maintain Your Visa Conditions

It is important to maintain your student visa conditions while running your business on a student visa. Otherwise, your visa will be cancelled. 

 

Therefore, manage your time effectively and don’t allow your business activities to interfere with your academic progress. Moreover, define your goals clearly and prioritise tasks based on deadlines.

 

Make sure you attend all the classes and keep studying as your priority. Use breaks between classes or during weekends to focus on your business activities.

 

Step 6: Plan Your Post-Study Pathways

It is important to plan your future studies in advance if you want to extend your stay and business in Australia. Consider the following visa option to stay in the country after completing your studies:

 

Post-Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Graduate Visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an eligible Australian institution to stay in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. This visa provides students with the opportunities to gain work experience that can be beneficial for running or expanding your business.

 

Final Thoughts

Undoubtedly, you can start a business on a student visa in Australia but it requires strategic planning and good time management. Understand student visa conditions and follow all the legalities of starting a business in Australia as an international student. 

However, if you are confused, seek professional advice from migration agents or legal advisors who will provide customized solutions based on your unique circumstances.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you start a business in Australia while on a student visa?

Yes, you can start a business in Australia while on a student visa (subclass 500). However, you must adhere to the conditions of your visa, which primarily focus on your studies. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.

 

Can I be self-employed as an international student in Australia?

Yes, international students can be self-employed in Australia. To do this, you need to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and ensure that your business activities comply with your visa conditions.

 

How do I register a business in Australia as an international student?

To register a business in Australia as an international student, follow these steps:

• Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) through the Australian Government’s Business Registration Service.
• Decide whether you want to operate as a sole trader, partnership, or company.
• If you want to trade under a name other than your own, register your business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
• Open a business bank account and understand your tax obligations.

 

Can I get PR if I start a business in Australia?

Starting a business in Australia can be a pathway to permanent residency (PR), but it depends on the type of visa you hold. Each visa has specific requirements, including investment amounts and business performance criteria.