Australian student visa new rules
The Australian government has introduced several changes to the student visa program in recent years. Here are some of the key changes and new rules:
Changes to the Student Visa Program (2020)
- Streamlined Student Visa Process: The Australian government introduced a new streamlined student visa process, which aims to reduce processing times and make it easier for international students to apply for a student visa.
- Increased English Language Requirements: The government increased the English language requirements for student visa applicants, requiring a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in each band (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
- New Requirements for Student Visa Applications: The government introduced new requirements for student visa applications, including:
- A valid passport with at least six months' validity
- A completed and signed application form
- Payment of the visa application charge
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Australia
- Health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in Australia
- Changes to the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: The government introduced changes to the GTE requirement, which aims to ensure that student visa applicants have a genuine intention to study in Australia and not to stay permanently.
- New Requirements for Student Visa Holders: Student visa holders are now required to:
- Report any changes to their address or contact details to the Department of Home Affairs
- Maintain their health insurance for the duration of their stay in Australia
- Not engage in any work or study that is not authorized by their student visa
New Rules for Student Visa Applications (2022)
- Increased Visa Application Charge: The visa application charge for student visas has increased to AUD 1,020 (approximately USD 700).
- New Requirements for Student Visa Applications: The government has introduced new requirements for student visa applications, including:
- A valid passport with at least six months' validity
- A completed and signed application form
- Payment of the visa application charge
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Australia
- Health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in Australia
- A police certificate from their home country or a country where they have lived for the past 12 months
- Changes to the English Language Requirements: The government has introduced changes to the English language requirements for student visa applicants, requiring a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 in each band (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
- New Requirements for Student Visa Holders: Student visa holders are now required to:
- Report any changes to their address or contact details to the Department of Home Affairs
- Maintain their health insurance for the duration of their stay in Australia
- Not engage in any work or study that is not authorized by their student visa
Important Notes
- The Australian government has introduced several changes to the student visa program in recent years, and it is essential to check the official government website for the most up-to-date information.
- Student visa applicants should ensure that they meet all the requirements and provide all the necessary documents to support their application.
- It is recommended that student visa applicants seek advice from a registered migration agent or a qualified immigration lawyer to ensure that their application is processed correctly and efficiently.