Starting July 1, 2024, Australia has implemented significant changes to its student visa policies. The new rules mean higher fees and stricter regulations for international students.
Higher Fees
The cost of applying for an Australian student visa has more than doubled. Previously, the fee was A$710, but it has now increased to A$1,600. This increase aims to manage the high number of migrants, which has put pressure on the housing market. For comparison, the United States charges around $185 for a student visa, while Canada charges about C$150 ($110).
Stricter Application Rules
Under the new rules, certain visa holders can no longer apply for a student visa while in Australia. This includes those on Visitor visas, Temporary Graduate visas, and several other visa types. The change aims to prevent “visa hopping,” where individuals extend their stay by switching visas repeatedly.
Onshore vs. Offshore Applications
If you want to study in Australia, you now have to apply for a student visa from outside the country. Those who applied before July 1, 2024, will still have their applications processed, but new applications must be made offshore. Additionally, visitor visa holders can study for up to three months on their current visa, but for longer studies, they need to apply for a student visa from outside Australia.
Migration and Housing Concerns
Australia’s net immigration hit a record high of 548,800 people in the year leading up to September 30, 2023. This surge has exacerbated housing market pressures. The government hopes that the new visa fees and rules will help control the number of migrants and ease these pressures.
Closing Loopholes
The Australian government is also closing loopholes that allowed students to stay in the country by continuously applying for new student visas. The number of students on a second or subsequent student visa rose by over 30% in the 2022-23 period, reaching more than 150,000. By tightening these rules, Australia aims to ensure that students and temporary visa holders either find skilled jobs or return to their home countries.
Impact on International Education
International education is a significant part of Australia’s economy, contributing A$36.4 billion during the 2022-2023 financial year. However, these new policies could impact the number of international students choosing to study in Australia. The changes are part of a broader effort to maintain the integrity of the immigration system and ensure that it benefits Australia in a fair and sustainable way.
Australia’s new student visa rules mean higher costs and stricter application processes for international students. These changes aim to manage the number of migrants, ease housing pressures, and ensure that the immigration system works effectively for the country. While the new policies may deter some prospective students, they are designed to create a more controlled and fair migration system.
