International Student Tax Return Australia

International student tax in Australia

If you are an international student studying and working in Australia, you may have Australian tax obligations. Your visa or citizenship does not automatically determine your tax residency. Tax residency is considered under Australian tax rules and depends on your circumstances.

Tax residency matters

Your tax residency can affect how your income is taxed and which rules may apply to you. The Australian Taxation Office explains that an overseas student enrolled in a course lasting six months or more may be an Australian resident for tax purposes in some circumstances. The correct outcome needs to be considered for the individual rather than assumed from the visa alone.

Working while studying

Many international students work part-time or casually while studying. If you receive Australian employment income, tax may be withheld from your pay. You may need to lodge an income tax return depending on your circumstances, and your assessment may result in a refund or an amount payable.

International student deductions

Not every study expense is automatically deductible. Deductions generally need to satisfy the relevant Australian tax rules and, for work-related expenses, have a connection to earning assessable income. Keep receipts and records and avoid claiming private study or living costs simply because you are a student.

Get your international student tax return right

StudentTax can help you organise the information needed for your Australian return and understand the questions that may arise around residency, employment and deductions.