Can I Travel Home During Semester Breaks?

 

If you’re an international student in Australia, you may be wondering:

 

• Can I travel home during semester breaks?
• What are the requirements for travelling while on a student visa?
• What should I consider before booking my flight?

 

The good news is that yes, you can travel home during semester breaks.

 

However, there are important factors to consider before going back. This blog will provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about travelling home during semester breaks as an international student in Australia. 

 

Can International Students Travel Home During Semester Breaks?

Generally, international students holding a valid Australian student visa (subclass 500) are allowed to travel outside of Australia during semester breaks.

 

The student visa usually allows multiple entries into Australia and enables students to leave and re-enter the country. However, you must meet certain conditions to ensure compliance with visa regulations.

 

Key Requirements for International Students Travelling Home During Semester Breaks

International students must meet the following requirements to travel home during semester breaks: 

 

1. Make sure your visa remains valid

Students must ensure that their student visa (subclass 500) remains valid for the entire duration of their travel and for their return to Australia. If the visa is about to expire, renewal procedures should be started well in advance of the travel dates.

 

2. Make sure your passport remains valid.

A valid passport is essential for international travel. Students should check the expiration date of their passport. They must ensure that the passport remains valid for at least six months beyond their intended return date to Australia.

 

3. Make sure you have active CoE

Students must maintain their enrolment in a registered course of study. Any interruption or cancellation of enrolment may affect their visa status and ability to re-enter Australia.

 

4. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) 

Valid OSHC is a mandatory requirement for student visa holders. Students must ensure that their OSHC policy remains active and covers the entire period of their stay in Australia. Moreover, OSHC must be valid for the time spent outside the country during semester breaks.

 

5. Inform your university

It is a good idea to inform your university or educational institution about your travel plans; however, it is not mandatory. This is especially important if you’re travelling during term time for compassionate or medical reasons.

 

6. Make sure you have travel documents

Students should carry all necessary travel documents, including their passport, visa, CoE, and OSHC policy details. These documents are important for presentation to immigration authorities upon re-entry to Australia.

 

Can International Students Travel Home During Term Time?

In some circumstances, international students may need to travel during the academic term. However, this is generally discouraged and students must adhere to certain rules and procedures:

 

Apply for Leave of Absence 

Leave of absence is essential. If you want to travel during term time, you need to apply for a Leave of Absence from your university. This is a formal request for permission to be absent from your studies.

 

The application should clearly state the reasons for the absence and provide supporting documentation, such as medical certificates or other relevant evidence.

 

Universities will only grant a Leave of Absence for valid and compelling reasons. These usually include:

 

• Serious illness or injury that requires medical treatment in the student’s home country.
• Death of a close family member.
• Unforeseen events or emergencies that  necessitate the student’s presence in their home country.

 

So, if any of these reasons apply to you, you can visit your home country during term time. 

 

What if I don’t follow the legal procedure?

Travelling during term time without an approved leave of absence can result in serious consequences, including:

 

• The educational institution may cancel the student’s Confirmation of Enrollment (COE)
• The Department of Home Affairs may cancel the student’s visa.
• The student may be denied re-entry to Australia upon their return.

 

Want to know more about CoE cancellations? Read the following blog: 

What Happens After CoE Cancellation in Australia?

 

Final Thoughts

So, international students in Australia can travel home during semester breaks. But they must adhere to all relevant visa conditions and requirements. Moreover, for a smooth and successful return to their studies in Australia, students must work with careful planning.  

 

Students should consult with their educational institution and the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date information.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Can international students leave Australia during semester breaks?

Yes, international students holding a valid Australian student visa (subclass 500) can leave Australia during semester breaks. But they must follow the legal procedure to do so.

 

Do I need permission from my university to travel home?

It is not mandatory to inform your university about your travel plans. However, it is recommended to inform, especially if you’re travelling during term time for compassionate reasons.

 

What should I do if my visa is about to expire?

If your visa is about to expire and you are planning to go back, start the renewal process in advance of your travel dates to avoid any issues.

 

Can I leave Australia while studying?

Yes, you can leave Australia while studying as long as your student visa is valid. You can travel home during semester breaks or even during term time if you have permission from your university.

 

Can you go back home on a student visa?

Yes, you can go back home on a student visa. Your Australian student visa allows multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter Australia as long as your visa is valid.

 

How long is a semester break in Australia?

Semester breaks in Australia typically last around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the university or educational institution. Some courses may also have longer breaks during the summer holidays.

 

Can I work full time during semester break in Australia?

Yes. If you’re on a student visa, you can work unlimited hours (full-time) during your semester breaks and holidays.  This includes mid-semester breaks too.  Remember that when your classes are in session, you can only work up to 48 hours every two weeks.

 

How do school breaks work in Australia?

School breaks in Australia are like vacation times during the school year. There are usually breaks between semesters (semester breaks) and sometimes shorter breaks in the middle of a semester (mid-semester breaks). 

 

During these breaks, you don’t have regular classes, giving you time to relax, travel, or work more hours if you want to. If you are completing your masters or PhD, then there are no limits on work hours