Proof of income for the exchange in Australia in 2025
Planning an exchange in Australia requires special attention to financial proof, especially with the new 2025 rules. With Brazil reclassified as a Level 2 country, understanding the financial requirements became critical to ensuring approval of your Australian student visa. Discover everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide.
New Brazilian classification and its impacts
In March 2025, Brazil returned to the classification of level 2 risk country by Australian immigration. This change has significant implications for Brazilian students who wish 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.
To better understand, the Australian system classifies countries based on several factors, including visa approval rates, completion of courses by students, and rates of illegal stay in the country. Although Brazil is in a better position than before, there are still specific requirements that need to be met to ensure that your exchange dream is fulfilled.
Amounts required for financial proof
The Australian Embassy established that Brazilian students need to prove the availability of at least AUD 2,475.83 per month of staying in the country. This amount should cover your basic living expenses, as well as resources for airfare and educational costs.
For students planning a program of Study and Work in Australia, it is important to understand that this financial requirement goes beyond the simple presentation of a bank statement. The Australian government seeks to ensure that you will be able to maintain yourself adequately throughout your study period, even before you can get a local job.
It is worth noting that the prices may vary depending on the cost of living in the chosen city:
- Sydney and Melbourne: Higher cost of living, which may require higher values
- Brisbane and Adelaide: Alternatives with 20-30% lower cost than Sydney
- Gold Coast and Cairns: Even more affordable options, with rentals starting at AUD 1,200/month
How to prove your financial capacity
There are different ways to prove your financial capacity for the Australian visa. Immigration authorities primarily accept two types of documentation:
- Bank statements: Current account statements, investments, or investments may be used. The crucial point is that these resources are of immediate use - avoid including investments that take more than one day to redeem. The statements must be in your name or those of your immediate family members.
- Income Tax Return: The declaration of parents, mother, or spouse can be used (it cannot be from the exchange student himself). The focus of the analysis will be the taxable income received in the last year, not the declared assets.
The documentation must be translated into English and, in some cases, it may be necessary to include an explanatory letter about the origin of the resources. Remember that transparency is fundamental in this process.
Requirements according to the institution level
It is important to understand that the requirements for financial proof vary according to the level of the educational institution chosen:
- Level 3 schools: Mandatory financial proof for all Brazilian students
- Level 1 and 2 schools: Evidence is not required initially, but the Embassy may request it after reviewing the candidate's profile
This differentiation occurs because the Australian government categorizes educational institutions into levels, considering their reputation, track record with international students, and course completion rates. Level 1 and 2 schools are considered lower risk, while level 3 schools receive greater scrutiny in the visa approval process.
Be Easy works primarily with level 1 and 2 institutions, which significantly increases your chances of approval without the initial need for financial proof.
Cases in which the Embassy may request additional evidence
Even applying to level 1 or 2 schools, the Embassy may request financial proof in specific cases:
- Limited or no international travel history
- Advanced age for a student exchange program
- Little employment or educational relationship in Brazil
- Inconsistencies in the submitted documentation
- Course choice that doesn't align with educational or professional background
When the Embassy requests additional documentation, it generally allows a period of 28 days to respond. It is essential to be prepared and respond promptly to avoid a visa refusal.
Minimum wage and work for students in Australia
A positive aspect for those planning to study in Australia in 2025 is the increase in the minimum wage to AUD 24.10 per hour. Students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during school holidays.
Working 20 hours a week on minimum wage, you can earn approximately AUD 1,928 per month (before taxes). This amount can cover a large part of your monthly expenses, especially in cities with a more affordable cost of living.
It's important to understand that while work can significantly help with your expenses, the Embassy doesn't consider this potential income when reviewing your visa. They need to make sure that you have enough resources even before you can get a local job.
Tips for ensuring your Australian visa is approved
To increase your chances of visa approval, follow these essential recommendations:
- Prepare in advance: Start organizing your financial documents at least 3 months before applying for the visa
- Keep resources stable: Avoid large bank transactions close to the application date
- Supplementary documentation: In addition to financial proof, present strong ties with Brazil (employment, family, property)
- Motivation letter: Clearly explain your educational objectives and return plans to Brazil
- OSHC Insurance: Take out compulsory student health insurance (OSHC) before applying for the visa
Remember that financial proof is just one of the aspects analyzed. The Embassy seeks to confirm that you are a genuine student intending to return to Brazil after the study period.
Additional earnings with advance planning
Planning your financial statement in advance can bring benefits beyond visa approval. With the floating exchange rate, monitoring the ideal time to convert your funds into Australian dollars can result in significant savings. Some families choose to start “savings Australia” up to two years before the exchange, taking advantage of favorable exchange rates.
Be Easy
Be Easy offers full support for your exchange in Australia, including detailed guidance on financial proof and visa processes. Our specialized team accompanies each stage, from choosing the ideal institution to preparing the necessary documentation. Get in touch today and discover how we can make your dream of studying and working in Australia an accessible and hassle-free reality.
