Australia continues to be one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering world-class education and diverse opportunities. However, staying updated on the latest visa regulations is essential for both current and prospective students. As of July 1, 2024, several significant changes to Australian Student Visas have been implemented, impacting onshore applications, financial requirements, post-graduation work opportunities, and more.
At Maryam Migration Lawyers, we’re committed to keeping you informed and guiding you through these changes. Below, we outline the most critical updates and what they mean for you.
1. Onshore Student Visa Applications Restricted
As of July 1, 2024, onshore Student Visa applications have been restricted to specific visa holders. This change limits the categories of temporary visa holders who can apply for a Student Visa while already in Australia.
Eligible Onshore Applications: Holders of visas like the Working Holiday Maker Visa (Subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) can still apply for a Student Visa from within Australia.
Restrictions for Visitor and Temporary Graduate Visa Holders: If you are on a Visitor Visa or a Temporary Graduate Visa, you must now apply for your Student Visa from outside Australia. This means careful planning is required if you’re considering switching to a Student Visa after completing your visit or studies.
This update makes it crucial to carefully consider the timing and location of your Student Visa application to avoid unnecessary complications.
2. Increased Financial Capacity Requirement
Financial capacity requirements for both Student Visas and Student Guardian Visas have increased. As of July 1, 2024, you must demonstrate that you have access to a minimum of $29,710 AUD per individual student to cover your living costs in Australia.
Increased Minimum Requirement: The previous financial threshold has been raised to $29,710 AUD, reflecting the rising cost of living in Australia. This figure must be included in your visa application to demonstrate your ability to support yourself financially during your studies.
Implications for Student Guardians: Guardians applying for a Student Guardian Visa must also meet this new financial requirement.
It’s essential to ensure you have adequate financial resources, as failure to meet this requirement can result in visa delays or refusals.
3. Temporary Graduate Visa Changes
For those looking to stay and work in Australia after completing their studies, changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) provide new conditions that reflect Australia’s evolving economic and workforce needs. Here’s what’s new:
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream (formerly Graduate Work Stream): This visa stream has been renamed to better align with the level of study and vocational qualifications. It allows vocational education graduates to stay and work in Australia temporarily.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream (formerly Post-Study Work Stream): The maximum eligible age for applicants has been reduced to 35 years. This means if you are over 35, you may no longer qualify for this visa stream.
Exceptions: Exceptions to this age limit apply if you are completing a Master’s by Research or Doctoral degree, or if you hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas (BNO) passport.
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream: There are no changes to this stream, which continues to offer a second work visa for graduates who have lived and worked in regional Australia.
Replacement Stream: No changes have been made to this stream, allowing students affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions to reapply for their temporary graduate visa.
These updates make it crucial for recent graduates and current students planning to work in Australia to be mindful of the new eligibility criteria, particularly around age limits.
4. Increased Visa Application Fee
The cost of applying for a Student Visa has increased, reflecting the overall rise in processing costs and demand for migration services.
New Fee Structure: As of July 1, 2024, the application fee for international Student Visas (Subclass 500) has increased to $1,600 AUD.
This increase underscores the importance of ensuring your visa application is complete and accurate to avoid unnecessary delays or additional costs.
5. Stricter English Language Proficiency Requirements
To ensure students can thrive academically, Australia has introduced stricter English language proficiency requirements. These changes came into effect in March 2024 and continue to apply to all Student Visa applicants.
Higher Test Scores: Applicants must now meet higher minimum scores on recognized English proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic, depending on the level of study and institution.
Exemptions: Exemptions still apply for students from certain English-speaking countries or those who have completed prior education in English.
It’s essential to prepare for these tests early and ensure you meet the required scores for your chosen course and institution.
For up-to-date advice and personalized support on the latest changes to Australian Student Visas, contact Maryam Migration Lawyers today. We are here to make your educational and migration journey as seamless as possible.