Australia has announced significant changes to its Student Visa rules in an effort to curb ‘visa hopping’ and close loopholes that have allowed temporary visa holders to extend their stay indefinitely.
Closure of Loopholes to Prevent Indefinite Extensions:
According to an official press release from the Minister for Home Affairs, the new measures are aimed at preventing international students and other temporary visa holders from exploiting the system to prolong their stay in Australia.
The changes come as a response to a 30% increase in the number of international students holding multiple student visas, which grew to over 150,000 in the 2022–23 period.
Restrictions on Repeated Student Visas:
The government will now restrict students from continually extending their student visas unless they can demonstrate credible course progression.
Also read: Australia tightens student visa rules amid high migration
This move is intended to better manage population growth.
Emphasis on Skilled Migration:
Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security Clare O’Neil emphasized the need for a migration system that attracts the necessary skills while eliminating rorts, loopholes, and exploitation.
TRACKING AFRICA
Australia tightens student visa rules as migration hits record high
Australia will begin enforcing tougher visa rules for foreign students this week as official data showed migration hit another record high.#Australie #studentvisa pic.twitter.com/GbZ3b2DA6k
— J.O. Comms (@jo_comms) March 21, 2024
As part of this effort, the government has already ended unrestricted work rights and rescinded the former COVID visa provisions.
Australia Student Visa new rules:
Starting next month, additional measures will take effect:
- Visitor Visa Restrictions: Visitor Visa holders will no longer be able to apply for Student Visas while in Australia. This change is aimed at preventing the use of the visitor-to-student pathway to bypass strengthened offshore student visa integrity measures.
- Temporary Graduate Visa Restrictions: Temporary Graduate Visa holders will also be prohibited from applying for Student Visas onshore. This measure is designed to encourage graduates to either find skilled employment and pursue permanent residency or leave the country, rather than becoming ‘permanently temporary’.
Stricter Conditions for International Students:
In addition to these measures, the government is introducing stricter conditions for international students:
- Shorter Post-Study Work Rights: Temporary Graduate visa holders will face significantly reduced post-study work rights.
- Reduced Age Limit: The age limit for eligibility will be lowered from 50 to 35 years.
- Increased English Language Requirements: There will be higher English language proficiency standards.
Impact on Net Overseas Migration:
These changes are part of a broader strategy to reduce net overseas migration, with the government aiming to halve this figure by the next financial year.
Also read: Australia ends special visa type for international students: All details
The government believes these measures will ensure the migration system meets the country’s needs without allowing for abuse or exploitation.
