You must include a personal statement in English that addresses the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of your application for a student visa (subclass 500).
This declaration, which must be included with your visa application, should specify that:
- You are truly travelling to Australia to study and have no other agenda.
- Only the period of time specified on your visa will you be residing there (and not overstaying).
The GTE requirement refers to your application for a student visa. You can possibly be qualified for a post-study work rights visa depending on your course of study (subclass 485).
You can also be qualified to apply for permanent residency if you have acquired the skills Australia requires after completing your studies there.
CHANGE TO GTE STATEMENT WORD LIMIT
The Department of Home Affairs of the Australian Government changed the word limit for GTE statements to 300 words in November 2022. (with a 2000-character limit).
WHAT DOCUMENTATION AND DETAILS TO PROVIDE
Documents supporting your GTE statement must be attached to your ImmiAccount.
Department of Home Affairs urge you to offer as much supporting documentation as you can, addressing:
Previous study
- academic transcripts showing qualifications achieved
- name of the education provider(s)
- length of study
- certificates of attainment
Gap in previous study
- reasons why there is a gap in your studies including where you did not maintain enrolment
Current employment
- your current employer
- company address
- period of employment
- details of your position
- the name and contact details of someone who can confirm the circumstances of your employment
Ties to home country or country of residence
- evidence of financial, family or social ties. You need to show you have significant incentives to return home
Economic situation in home country or country of residence
- documents showing employment or business activities for 12 months before lodging an application
- potential employment offers including salary and other benefits, after course completion
- income tax return or bank statements
Employment in a third country
Potential employment offers, including salary and other benefits, after course completion
HOW DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS ASSESS GTE
The GTE requirement is used to make sure the student visa program is accessed as intended. The student visa program is not a way for international students to maintain ongoing residency in Australia.
The GTE requirement helps identify applicants who are using the student visa program for motives other than gaining a quality education.
Situations in your home country (or country of residence)
Department of Home Affairs consider your:
- reason for not studying in your home country or region if a similar course is available there
- ties to your home country that support an intention to return after study is finished
- economic situation
- military service commitments
- political and civil unrest in your home country
Potential situation in Australia
Department of Home Affairs consider your:
- ties to Australia that present a strong incentive to stay in Australia
- level of knowledge of the proposed course and education provider
- previous study and qualifications
- planned living arrangements
- financial stability
Value of the course to your future
Department of Home Affairs consider:
- if the course is consistent with your current level of education
- if the course is relevant to past or proposed future employment in your home country or a third country
- expected salary and other benefits in your home country or a third country obtained with your qualifications from the proposed course of study
Your immigration history
Department of Home Affairs consider:
- previous visa applications for Australia or other countries
- visa refusals or cancellations
If you are a minor, Department of Home Affairs consider the intentions of your parent, legal guardian or spouse.
