How to Get an Internship on a Student Visa in Australia

Can You Do an Internship on an Australian Student Visa?

Yes. International students can generally complete internships in Australia while holding a Student visa (subclass 500), as long as they follow the work conditions attached to their visa.

For many students, this means working up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, with unlimited work during scheduled course breaks.

If the internship is a compulsory part of your course, different rules may apply and those hours may not count toward your normal work limit.

Before accepting any internship, check your individual visa conditions through VEVO and confirm the latest requirements with the Department of Home Affairs or your university.

Step 1: Understand your visa conditions

Before applying for internships, understand what your visa actually allows. Log into VEVO and check your specific conditions.

Things to look for include:

• Work limitation: Student visa holders commonly have a 48-hour-per-fortnight work limit while their course is in session.
• Course requirements: If your internship is a compulsory part of your degree, it may be treated differently from normal employment.
• Unpaid work: An internship being unpaid does not automatically mean it is exempt from work restrictions.

If you're unsure, speak with your university's international student or careers team before starting the internship.

Step 2: Find internships you're actually eligible for

The biggest mistake international students make is applying for roles that require permanent work rights or citizenship. Filter for eligibility first.

• Check the fine print: Many internships, especially in government, defence, and some large corporates, require Australian citizenship or permanent residency. Skip those.
• Target industries that sponsor or accept international students: Tech, engineering, accounting, marketing, and research often have internships open to student visa holders. Startups and SMEs are also more flexible.
• Use your university's career portal: These often list internships specifically for international students, and some are pre-vetted for visa eligibility.
• Look for programs with a track record: Some companies run dedicated international student internship programs. Search for those.
• Leverage clubs and societies: Student clubs often share internship leads and can connect you with alumni who've been in your position.

If you want a shortcut, Stride AI filters opportunities by genuine eligibility, including visa and work-rights requirements, so you only see internships you can actually apply for.

Step 3: Prepare your application

Once you've found eligible roles, tailor your application to the Australian market.

• Resume: Keep it to 2 pages max. Australian resumes typically don't include a photo, date of birth, or marital status. Focus on skills and achievements.
• Cover letter: Address the selection criteria directly. Mention your visa status upfront if it's relevant, and clarify that you have work rights for the internship period.
• LinkedIn: Update your profile and connect with recruiters. Many internships are posted there first.
• References: Have 2-3 academic or professional referees ready.

Step 4: Apply strategically

Don't spray and pray. Apply for roles where you meet at least 80% of the criteria. For each application:

• Customise your cover letter to the company and role.
• Highlight any relevant projects, part-time work, or volunteering.
• If the internship is unpaid, check whether it's legal. Unpaid internships are only allowed if they're part of a course or a genuine vocational placement. Otherwise, you should be paid.

Step 5: Nail the interview

Australian interviews are usually behavioural. Expect questions like "Tell me about a time you worked in a team." Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Be ready to talk about your visa status honestly. If they ask, explain that you have work rights and can provide documentation.

Step 6: Secure the internship and stay compliant

Once you get an offer:

• Get it in writing: The offer letter should state hours, duration, and whether it's paid.
• Check your hours: If it's during semester, make sure you don't exceed 48 hours per fortnight across all jobs.
• Update your university: If it's for credit, submit the required forms.
• Keep records: Save your payslips and timesheets in case you need to prove compliance later.

FAQ

Can I do an unpaid internship on a student visa? Unpaid internships are only allowed if they're a mandatory part of your course or a genuine vocational placement. Otherwise, they may count as work and must be paid. Check with your university and the Fair Work Ombudsman.

How many hours can I work during an internship? During the semester, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. During scheduled course breaks, you can work unlimited hours. If the internship is a course requirement, it doesn't count towards your work hours.

Do I need to tell my employer about my visa? Yes, it's best to be upfront. Employers need to know your work rights to ensure compliance. You can show them your visa grant letter or VEVO check.

Can an internship lead to sponsorship? It can. Many employers use internships as a pipeline for graduate roles and may sponsor high-performing interns. However, sponsorship depends on the company and your occupation.

What if my internship is in a different city? You can do it, but you'll need to ensure your visa allows you to study at your current institution and that the internship doesn't affect your course attendance. Check with your university.

How do I find internships open to international students? Use your university career portal, LinkedIn, and platforms like Stride AI that filter by visa eligibility. Also, network with clubs and alumni.