Everything you need to know before doing an exchange in Australia in 2025

Planning an exchange in Australia requires special attention in 2025, especially with the new rules and the reclassification of Brazil as a Level 2 country. Understanding the financial requirements, visa processes, and work opportunities has become critical to ensuring the approval of your Australian dream. In this comprehensive guide, you'll find everything you need to know to make that dream a reality, from bureaucratic requirements to practical tips for cultural adaptation.

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New Brazilian classification and its impacts

In March 2025, Brazil returned to the classification of a level 2 risk country by Australian immigration, after a brief period as a level 1 country between 2023 and the beginning of 2025. This change has significant implications for Brazilian students who want study and work in Australia. The main consequence is that financial proof is required to obtain a visa at level 3 schools, regardless of whether you apply through recognized agencies.

The Australian system classifies countries based on factors such as visa approval rates, course completion, and illegal stay rates. Countries are divided into three risk levels:

• Level 1: Low risk (such as Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom)
• Level 2: Moderate risk (Brazil is currently in this category)
• Level 3: High risk (countries with high visa refusal rates)

Although Brazil is in a better position than before (when it was Level 3), there are still specific requirements that need to be met to ensure visa approval. Knowing these requirements in advance can save time and resources during your application process. This reclassification was the result of an analysis of the immigration trends and behavior of Brazilian students in recent years, including course completion rates and return to the country of origin.

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Visa requirements in 2025

To study in Australia for more than three months, you will need a student visa (subclass 500). The application process is done entirely online through the ImmiAccount platform. Learn about the main updated requirements for 2025:

• Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE): You must be enrolled in a registered course (CRICOS) and provide a CoE that is issued by the educational institution after payment of the first installment of the course. Since January 2025, Offer Letters are no longer accepted by immigration authorities. The CoE contains essential information about your course, duration, fees, and CRICOS code, making it the most important document for your visa.
• Health Insurance (OSHC): Required for the entire duration of the visa, with costs between AUD 500 and AUD 800 per year (e.g. Bupa, Medibank, Allianz). This insurance covers medical appointments, exams, hospitalizations, and some medications. It is essential that the coverage extends over the entire visa period, not just the duration of the course. Some nationalities, such as Norwegians and Swedes, may be exempt from this requirement due to bilateral agreements.
• Proficiency in English: Proven by tests such as IELTS (5.5—6.5), TOEFL iBT (46-94), PTE Academic (42-64), or Cambridge English (154-176), as required by the educational institution. The required level varies depending on the type of course: vocational courses generally require lower scores, while university programs require higher scores. Test results must be less than two years old at the time of application. Language courses do not require a proficiency test.
• Genuine Student Requirement: It replaces the GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) since 2024, requiring proof that its main objective is to study in the country. You will need to demonstrate that your course choice is aligned with your educational background and career objectives, in addition to proving that you intend to return to Brazil after completing your studies. This can be demonstrated through a well-prepared motivation letter and documents that prove ties with Brazil.
• Visa Fee: AUD 1,600 (updated January 2025), with processing between 16 and 49 days. It is recommended to apply at least two months in advance of the planned start date of the course. In addition to this fee, consider additional costs such as document translation (approximately AUD 50-100 per page) and medical tests when requested (between AUD 300-500).

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Amounts required for financial proof

Financial proof is one of the most important points for obtaining an Australian visa in 2025. The authorities need to make sure that you will have enough resources to support yourself during your studies, even before you can get a local job. This requirement aims to ensure that international students do not face financial difficulties that could jeopardize their studies or cause them to violate visa conditions.

To prove your financial capacity, you will need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover AUD 29,710 per year (equivalent to AUD 2,475.83 per month). It should be noted that this amount is intended only for basic living expenses, such as food, accommodation, and transportation. Educational costs (university fees or VET courses) and airline tickets (approximately AUD 2,000 round trip) are not included.

This figure represents an increase of around 5% compared to 2024, reflecting changes in the Australian cost of living. The Department of Home Affairs updates these values annually, generally in July, based on the consumer price index and other economic indicators. It is essential to check the most recent values before starting your application.

The Australian Embassy seeks to ensure that you can support yourself during your studies, even before getting a local job. The prices may vary depending on the cost of living in the chosen city:

• Sydney and Melbourne: These are the most expensive cities, where the cost of living can be up to 30% higher than the national average. If you plan to study in these cities, consider proving additional amounts to demonstrate greater financial security.
• Brisbane and Perth: They offer a good balance between opportunities and cost of living, being approximately 15-20% cheaper than Sydney, but still with excellent infrastructure and quality of life.
• Adelaide and Hobart: Even more affordable alternatives, with a cost of living around 25-30% lower than Sydney and Melbourne, making them excellent options for those looking to maximize their budget.
• Gold Coast and Cairns: Economic and touristic options, with rentals starting at AUD 1,200/month for shared apartments, ideal for those who prefer smaller cities with a beach lifestyle.

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How to prove your financial capacity

Proper financial documentation is essential to the success of your visa application. Australian authorities carefully review these documents to verify the legitimacy and availability of the funds. Here's how you can prove your financial standing to Australian authorities:

1. Bank statements: They must be current accounts, investments, or investments for immediate use (redeemable within 1 day). The statements need to cover the last 3 months, demonstrating financial stability and not just a recent deposit. They may be in your name or those of immediate family members (parents, spouse). If they're in your parents' name, you'll need to include a birth certificate to prove kinship. Avoid including long-term assets or investments, such as real estate or private pension.
2. Income Tax Return: It may belong to parents or spouse (not the exchange student), focusing on last year's taxable income, not on declared assets. This document helps to prove the legitimate origin of the resources and the continued capacity to sustain them. The ideal is to submit statements from the last two years to demonstrate financial stability.
3. Explanatory letter: In some cases, it is recommended to include a letter explaining the origin of the funds, especially if there are large or recent deposits. This letter must detail how the funds were accumulated (salaries, property sales, inheritances, etc.) and demonstrate that they are legally available for your use.
4. Certified translations: All documents in Portuguese must be translated into English by a recognized sworn translator. Attention to detail: make sure that all values, dates, and names are correctly translated, as discrepancies may raise suspicion.
5. Proof of income: Payslips, employment contracts, or own-company documents that prove the origin of family income can strengthen your application, especially if the amounts on the bank statements are significant.
6. Student loans or scholarships: If you received student funding or scholarships, include complete documentation that proves these benefits and their conditions.

Transparency is essential in this process. Any inconsistency or attempt to manipulate financial information may result in an immediate refusal of a visa. If you have recent large deposits, be prepared to explain their origin in detail. Australian authorities have sophisticated systems to verify the authenticity of the documents and information submitted.

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Requirements according to the institution level

Financial requirements vary depending on the level of the educational institution chosen, which can significantly influence your chances of obtaining a visa:

Level 3 Schools

Financial proof is mandatory for all Brazilians, due to increased immigration scrutiny. These institutions generally have a less established track record with international students or lower completion rates. The review process tends to be more rigorous and lengthy, with a greater likelihood of requesting additional documents.

Level 1 and 2 Schools

Financial proof is not initially mandatory for Brazilians in 2025, but may be requested after analysis of the profile. These institutions have a better reputation and record with international students, which reduces the risk perceived by immigration authorities. Studying at a level 1 or 2 institution may mean a more streamlined process with fewer documentary requirements.

The institution level is determined by the Australian Department of Education based on several factors:

• Course completion rate by international students
• Compliance with educational regulations
• Quality of student support services
• Communication history with immigration authorities

It's important to research the institution's level before making your choice, as this can significantly impact your experience with the visa process. Australian public universities are generally rated level 1, while smaller colleges may be rated level 2 or 3.

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Living costs in Australia in 2025

For efficient financial planning, it is essential to understand the real costs of living in different Australian cities. These values vary significantly depending on the chosen location and lifestyle. Below is a breakdown of the estimated monthly costs in 2025:

Sydney and Melbourne (premium cities)

• Shared rental: AUD 900—1,500 per month (for a room in a shared flat)
• Student dormitory rental: AUD 1,300—2,000 monthly
• Groceries and food: AUD 400—600 monthly
• Public transport: AUD 120—160 monthly (with student discounts)
• Utilities and internet: AUD 150—250 monthly
• Entertainment and other expenses: AUD 200—300 monthly

Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide (intermediate cities)

• Shared rental: AUD 600—1,100 monthly
• Student dormitory rental: AUD 900—1,500 monthly
• Groceries and food: AUD 350—500 monthly
• Public transport: AUD 100—140 monthly (with student discounts)
• Utilities and internet: AUD 120—200 monthly
• Entertainment and other expenses: AUD 150—250 monthly

Gold Coast, Cairns and regional cities

• Shared rental: AUD 500—900 monthly
• Student dormitory rental: AUD 800—1,200 monthly
• Groceries and food: AUD 300—450 monthly
• Public transport: AUD 80—120 monthly (with student discounts)
• Utilities and internet: AUD 100—180 monthly
• Entertainment and other expenses: AUD 100—200 monthly

The estimated annual cost ranges from AUD 21,000 to AUD 35,000, depending on the city and lifestyle. Students who choose to cook at home, share accommodation and use public transport are able to save significantly. Many universities offer accommodation packages that include utilities, which can simplify your budget.

Additional factors that may influence your cost of living:

• Feeding style: Cooking at home can save up to AUD 200 a week compared to eating at restaurants
• Distance to the educational institution: Living further away from the center may reduce rental costs but increase transportation expenses
• Leisure activities: Taking advantage of free or discounted student options can significantly reduce your entertainment spending

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Minimum wage and work permit

In 2025, the Australian minimum wage is set at AUD 24.10 per hour (updated in July 2024), one of the highest in the world. This amount represents an increase of approximately 4% compared to 2024, reflecting the country's commitment to fair working conditions and quality of life. With a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during school holidays.

By working the maximum allowed during term time (20 hours a week), you can earn approximately:

• Weekly salary: AUD 482 (before tax)
• Monthly salary: Around AUD 1,928 (before taxes)
• Tax withholding: Approximately 10-15% for international students, depending on total annual income

This amount may cover a significant part of your monthly expenses, especially in smaller cities, but it's important to note that the Embassy does not consider this potential income when evaluating your financial capacity for the visa. Therefore, you must prove sufficient resources not counting future earnings in Australia.

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Sectors that employ the most international students

1. Hospitality: Restaurants, cafés, bars, and hotels frequently hire international students for roles such as an attendant, waiter, barista, and kitchen assistant. Wages in this sector generally include tips, especially in upscale establishments.
2. Retail: Stores, supermarkets, and shopping centers offer opportunities as an attendant, cashier, and stockist. These positions generally offer flexible scales that can be easily adapted to the study schedule.
3. Delivery services: With the growth of e-commerce, companies like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and DoorDash offer flexible options for students. This job allows you to set your own schedules, ideal for those with an irregular study schedule.
4. Care for the elderly and children: With adequate training, this sector offers above average compensation and valuable experience for those studying in the area of health or education.
5. Administrative work and call centers: Particularly accessible to students with a good level of English, these positions generally pay above the minimum wage and offer a more formal work environment.
6. Seasonal agricultural work: While on vacation, working on farms can offer substantial earnings and unique experiences, in addition to contributing to visa extension requirements in some cases.

To maximize your chances of getting a good job:

• Prepare a resume in the Australian format (different from the Brazilian one)
• Get the Tax File Number (TFN) right after your arrival
• Consider obtaining local certifications such as Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) to work in bars or cafes
• Develop your fluency in English, especially vocabulary specific to your area of interest
• Build a network of contacts through student groups and community events

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Cultural aspects and practical tips

Cultural adaptation is just as important as financial preparation to ensure a successful experience in Australia. The country has a unique culture that combines British, indigenous and multicultural influences, resulting in a welcoming environment with its peculiarities.

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Australian education system

The Australian education system is recognized worldwide for its quality and practical approach. Classes generally combine theory and application, with a strong emphasis on group work, presentations, and practical projects. Relationships with teachers tend to be less formal than in Brazil, with open discussions and encouraged active participation.

Some important features:

• Plagiarism is taken very seriously, with severe academic penalties
• Punctuality is essential, both for classes and for delivering work
• Participation in classroom discussions is often part of the assessment
• Assessment system generally includes continuous work, not just final exams

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Practical tips for adaptation

1. Transportation: Public transport systems are efficient, with cards such as Opal (Sydney), Myki (Melbourne), and Go Card (Brisbane). International students are entitled to significant discounts and can save up to 50% on regular rates. Some cities offer free transportation in certain central areas. Apps like TripView and Transit are essential for planning trips.
2. security: Australia is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low violent crime rates. However, it is recommended to take basic precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables safe. Remember to report your address to the authorities within 7 days of arrival, as required by the visa.
3. Networking: Attend events for international students, Brazilian groups, and community activities. Universities generally organize “orientation weeks” and student clubs that are excellent for building your network of contacts. Platforms such as MeetUp.com and Facebook groups are also great tools for finding people with similar interests.
4. Climate and sun protection: The Australian climate can be extreme, with very hot summers, especially in the northern and central regions. The Australian summer occurs during the Brazilian winter (December to February). The ozone layer is thinner over Australia, making sun protection essential - wear high-factor sunscreen (50+) and a hat, even on cloudy days.
5. Local expressions and communication: Australians use a lot of slang and their own expressions that may initially confuse. Some examples:
   • “Arvo” = evening
   • “Barbie” = barbecue
   • “Brekkie” = breakfast
   • “Mate” = friend
   • “No worries” = no problems/you're welcome
   Additionally, Australians tend to be direct in communication but always polite. “thank you” and “please” are often used in everyday situations.
6. Laws and regulations: Some Australian laws are quite strict, especially related to:
   • Drinking alcohol in public (prohibited in many areas)
   • Smoking (banned in almost all indoor places and many outdoor areas)
   • Traffic (heavy fines for violations such as speeding)
   • Food importation (extremely restricted, with severe fines)
7. Banks and finance: Open a bank account shortly after arriving, as it will make it easier to receive salaries and payments. Banks like Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac, and NAB offer fee-free accounts for international students. For international transfers, services like Wise and Remitly generally offer better exchange rates than traditional banks.
8. Health and emergencies: Your OSHC insurance covers most medical services, but familiarize yourself with your exclusions. The emergency number in Australia is 000. For non-urgent medical questions, look for “bulk billing clinics” that don't charge more than the amount covered by the insurance. Apps like HealthDirect can help you find nearby medical services.

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Enrollment limit and impact for students in 2025

The Australian government has established a national limit of 270,000 new international enrollments for 2025 (National Planning Level), 145,000 of which are allocated to public universities. This measure aims to ensure the quality of education and support services, but may affect the availability of places in popular institutions.

This limitation, implemented for the first time in 2024 and maintained in 2025, represents an additional challenge for Brazilian students. Practical implications include:

• Increased competitiveness: The most prestigious institutions can fill their vacancies quickly, requiring early applications
• Stricter deadlines: Enrollment periods may close ahead of schedule once quotas are reached
• Diversification of options: Considering less traditional institutions and cities may increase your chances of acceptance

To increase your chances in the face of this limitation:

1. Start your application process at least 6-8 months in advance
2. Consider less popular start periods (July instead of February)
3. Explore institutions in regional cities, which generally have vacancies available for longer
4. Keep in regular contact with your preferred institution to monitor the availability of vacancies

The Australian Department of Education recommends that international students stay informed through the official Study Australia website and consult specialized agencies such as Be Easy for up-to-date guidance on the availability of places.

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Tips for Securing Visa Approval

The visa process can be challenging, but with proper preparation, your chances of approval increase significantly. Here are some proven strategies to strengthen your application:

1. Planning in advance: Organize your financial documents at least 3 months before applying. Avoid large and unexplained bank transactions in the months leading up to the process, as they may raise suspicion.
2. Demonstrate links with Brazil: Immigration officers want to ensure that you will return to Brazil after your studies. Documents such as a current employment contract (even if you're going to resign), family property, business, or family responsibilities can help demonstrate these ties.
3. Convincing motivation letter: Prepare a letter detailing your educational objectives, why you chose that specific institution, and how the course aligns with your career plans in Brazil. This letter must be personalized and specific, not generic.
4. Travel history: If you have traveled to other countries and respected the conditions of previous visas, include copies of old passports or records of those trips. This shows that you are a reliable traveler.
5. Get OSHC insurance in advance: Not only is it a requirement, but it demonstrates commitment to your study plan and understanding of Australian rules.
6. Consistency in documentation: Make sure that there are no contradictions between different documents submitted. Inconsistencies can lead to questioning and possible refusal.
7. Professional support: Consider the support of a specialized agency like Be Easy, especially if it's your first application or if you have complex circumstances. Experienced agents know the details that can make the difference between approval and refusal.
8. Translation and document organization: Invest in quality certified translations and organize your documents in a clear and logical manner, making it easier for the immigration officer to review them.
9. Respond promptly to additional requests: If the Embassy requests additional documents or clarifications, respond within the stipulated deadline (generally 28 days) in a complete and organized manner.
10. Honesty above all: Never provide false information or fraudulent documents. Australian authorities have sophisticated methods for verifying the authenticity of information, and the discovery of fraud could result in a ban from entering the country for several years.

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Earnings from planning in advance

Starting your exchange planning well in advance can result in significant savings and a smoother experience. Smart financial strategies include:

1. Australia-specific savings: Creating “savings Australia” with regular deposits 18-24 months before the trip allows you to accumulate resources gradually and with less impact on the budget.
2. Exchange monitoring: Monitoring exchange rate changes and making purchases of Australian dollars at favorable times can represent savings of up to 15% in the total amount. Exchange apps and alerts can help with this monitoring.
3. Advance ticket purchase: Airfares to Australia may vary significantly. Buying tickets 6-8 months in advance generally results in savings of 20-30%.
4. Negotiation of discounts at institutions: Many schools offer discounts for early or full payments. Starting the process early allows you to take advantage of these opportunities, which can lead to discounts of 5-15% on enrollment fees.
5. Gradual preparation for proficiency tests: Starting preparation for tests such as IELTS early allows you to study without pressure and possibly avoids the need to retake the test, saving approximately AUD 340 per attempt.
6. Detailed accommodation search: With enough time, it is possible to search for cheaper accommodation options in better locations, including homestay possibilities with Australian families, which generally offer a more welcoming environment and cultural immersion.
7. Online preparatory courses: Taking advantage of free or low-cost courses on Australian culture, English for specific contexts, and skills relevant to your area of study can facilitate your adaptation and potentially improve your academic performance.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy offers full support for your exchange in Australia, ensuring a smooth and successful experience. We have developed an exclusive program for Australia that includes personalized advice, support throughout the process, and follow-up after arrival in the country. Contact us now for personalized guidance and make your Australian dream a reality!

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