Migrants and international students: check four separate permissions

Use your own documents

Example: a learner sees a real estate course advertisement and assumes enrolment will allow full-time agency work. Before paying, they check their visa grant details, the course registration and the state regulator’s requirements. That reveals questions the advertisement cannot answer.

Home Affairs says Student visa holders generally have a 48-hour fortnightly work limit while their course is in session, with specified exceptions. Individual conditions and circumstances matter. Check your grant letter and Visa Entitlement Verification Online, known as VEVO, rather than applying a friend’s situation to your own. Department of Home Affairs, Student visa subclass 500

Keep the course check separate

CRICOS is the Australian Government register of institutions and courses for overseas students. Check the exact course and provider, not only a school’s trading name or a general statement that it accepts international learners. Australian Government Department of Education, CRICOS

Study Australia’s course-search guidance explains that published course listings use a valid CRICOS code linked to a campus. A listing is a useful starting point, but you still need to confirm the course and location fit your study circumstances. Study Australia, How to update your Course Search listing

Then check the occupational pathway

A real estate qualification does not itself establish your right to work in Australia or grant a state licence. NSW’s assistant agent guidance, for example, has its own qualification, suitability and supervision requirements. Other jurisdictions have their own pathways. NSW Government, Assistant agent: certificate of registration

If you have overseas experience, gather clear evidence of what you studied and did. Ask the relevant regulator or provider what assessment is available. Do not assume overseas experience will be rejected, and do not assume it will be accepted automatically.

Make the decision safely

It is understandable to want one simple answer before spending money. Ask the provider to separate its course advice from visa and licensing questions. Be cautious about promises linking enrolment to a guaranteed job, visa or permanent residence outcome.

Your current visa, course timing, location and intended duties can change the answer. Where individual migration advice is needed, use a suitably authorised professional. This article cannot assess your personal visa position.

Your next step

Create a four-item checklist: visa conditions, study eligibility, exact course registration and state work authority. Resolve each item before relying on the pathway. Keep dated records of the official information used so you can check again if your plans change.