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Obtain Your Passport and Visa

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the expiry date of your student visa.

• Apply for the Australian Student Visa (subclass 500) and organize all necessary travel documents.

Book Flights, Travel Insurance, and Collect Your Ticket

• Once your visa is approved, book your flight to Melbourne promptly.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover emergencies, health issues, and travel disruptions.

Arrange Airport Pickup and Accommodation

• Organize airport pickup through an agency or your institution’s International Services office.

• Confirm your accommodation arrangements before departing, whether temporary or long-term.

Familiarize Yourself with Customs Regulations

Australia has strict customs and quarantine rules. Review the guidelines to understand which items are permitted and which are prohibited: Australian Border Force.

Undergo Medical Check-Ups

• Complete any required medical check-ups before leaving.

• If bringing prescribed medications, ensure they are allowed in Australia and carry supporting documentation such as prescriptions or doctor’s notes.

Essential Documents to Bring

Keep the following documents in your carry-on luggage:

• Passport with your student visa

• Offer letter from your education provider

• Course acceptance agreement

• Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)

• International driver’s license (if applicable)

• Birth certificate or national ID card

• Accommodation confirmation details

• Emergency contact information (relatives, friends, and embassy)

Bring Sufficient Funds

Carry AU$2,500–AU$3,500 in cash, credit cards, or bank drafts to cover initial expenses like accommodation, food, and transport during your first week in Melbourne.

Booking Your Flight

After receiving your student visa, book your flight to Melbourne promptly. Arrive at least 1–2 weeks before enrolment to settle in, organize accommodation, and manage finances.

• Late Arrivals: If you cannot arrive by the date on your offer letter, inform your education provider immediately to seek permission for a late start.

Packing Essentials

What to Bring

• Clothing: Melbourne’s weather is unpredictable, so pack for a range of temperatures (10°C–40°C). Casual attire like jeans, T-shirts, sweaters, and comfortable shoes is ideal.

• Electronics: Bring your laptop, phone chargers, and an adaptor for Australian sockets (220–240 volts, three-pin plugs). Adaptors can be purchased locally for AU$30–AU$50.

What Not to Bring
Avoid prohibited items such as:

• Animal or plant products (e.g., dried meats, seeds, herbs)

• Foodstuffs restricted by quarantine laws

• Drugs, firearms, and weapons (strictly prohibited with severe penalties)

Never carry luggage or items for others, as they may contain restricted or illegal goods.

Australian Customs and Quarantine Regulations

Australia’s customs and quarantine rules are stringent. If you’re unsure about an item, declare it at customs or review the guidelines: Can You Bring It In?.

• Prohibited items include illicit drugs, firearms, and certain food or plant products.

Additional Tips for Arrival in Melbourne

• Currency Exchange: Exchange money into Australian dollars before departure or upon arrival at Melbourne Airport.

• SIM Card/Phone Plan: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Providers include Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

• Public Transport: Melbourne’s public transport system includes trams, trains, and buses. Buy a Myki card for easy access to the network.