Can I Do Freelancing Legally as a Student on a Subclass 500 Visa?
Many international students in Australia wonder if they can take up freelancing or gig work while studying on a subclass 500 visa. Whether you’re a web developer, designer, writer, or tutor, freelancing offers flexibility and valuable work experience. But what does the law say, and how can you stay compliant while building your career?
Freelancing on a Subclass 500 Visa: Is It Allowed?
Yes, you can do freelancing as a student on a subclass 500 visa in Australia, but there are important rules you must follow. The Australian government allows international students to work, including as freelancers or independent contractors, as long as you:
- Do not exceed 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours per week) during study periods. During official university breaks, you can work unlimited hours.
Source: Study Melbourne - Ensure your work does not interfere with your studies and you remain enrolled and in good academic standing.
Source: SWEC Visa Consultant
These work hour limits apply to all types of work-whether you are employed, freelancing, or running your own small business.
Related: Post Study Work Visa vs EU Blue Card
How to Start Freelancing Legally as a Student
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Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN):
- To freelance or operate as an independent contractor, you need an ABN. This is a straightforward process and can be done online through the Australian Government’s Business Registration Service.
- With an ABN, you can invoice clients, work on platforms like Upwork, and offer services such as writing, programming, or design.
Source: World Class Consultants
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Track Your Working Hours:
- Even if your freelance work is project-based or paid per deliverable, you must keep a record of the hours you spend working. All work (freelance or employed) must stay within the 48-hour limit during study periods.
Source: Immigration Agent Adelaide
- Even if your freelance work is project-based or paid per deliverable, you must keep a record of the hours you spend working. All work (freelance or employed) must stay within the 48-hour limit during study periods.
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Declare Your Income:
- You must declare all your income, including freelance earnings, to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) if you don’t already have one.
Source: Study Melbourne
- You must declare all your income, including freelance earnings, to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) if you don’t already have one.
Important Reminders for Student Freelancers
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Work hour limits are strict. Exceeding 48 hours per fortnight during study periods can result in visa cancellation and future visa complications.
Learn more: How to Apply for OPT Jobs in USA -
Freelancing income is taxable and must be reported, even if paid into an overseas account.
See: How to Recognize New Trends at Early Stage -
Freelancing counts towards your work limit even if you work for overseas clients or get paid through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
Source: Reddit: r/AskAnAustralian -
Always check your visa conditions and consult a registered migration agent if you are unsure about your situation.
Related: Best Study Abroad 2025
How to Find Freelance Opportunities as a Student
Once you have your ABN and understand your work limits, you can find freelance jobs on platforms like:
For more advice on building your skills for remote and freelance work, check out our post on Post Study Work Visa vs EU Blue Card and Hybrid Learning Tools 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freelance full-time during university holidays?
Yes, during official university breaks, you can work unlimited hours, including freelancing.
Source: Study Melbourne - Do I need an ABN for all freelance work?
Yes, if you are invoicing clients or working as an independent contractor, you must have an ABN.
Source: World Class Consultants - Does unpaid or volunteer freelance work count towards my work limit?
Only paid work counts towards your 48-hour limit. Unpaid internships or volunteer work may have different rules-check with your university or a migration agent.
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Conclusion
Freelancing is legal for students on a subclass 500 visa in Australia as long as you follow the work hour restrictions and register for an ABN. Always keep track of your hours, declare your income, and put your studies first. With the right approach, freelancing can help you build your portfolio, earn extra income, and gain valuable experience for your future career.
For more tips and resources on studying and working abroad, keep exploring Study From Here.