Australia is set to impose more stringent visa regulations for international students, as the latest official data reveals another peak in migration figures.
The new regulations, effective from March 23, will heighten English language proficiency requirements for student visas. Additionally, they empower the government to suspend educational institutions from recruiting international students if they repeatedly violate regulations.
In a statement, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing migration levels while addressing issues within the existing system. O’Neil highlighted the introduction of a “genuine student test” aimed at deterring individuals seeking entry for work rather than educational purposes. Furthermore, the government plans to enforce “no further stay” conditions on visitor visas.
These measures follow previous actions taken to revoke COVID-era exceptions introduced by the former administration, which included unrestricted working hours for international students.
Australia had augmented its annual migration intake in 2022 to alleviate labor shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the sudden influx of foreign workers and students has intensified pressure on an already strained rental market, where demand surpasses available housing supply.
According to Australia’s Department of Education, the country hosted over 567,000 international students as of January 2024, marking a 26 percent increase from the previous year. The majority of these students originate from Asian countries, with China, India, Nepal, the Philippines, and Vietnam leading the list.
Australia’s population surged by 2.5 percent to 26.8 million people in the past year, recording the fastest growth rate on record. This surge in migration has expanded the labor pool, thereby alleviating wage pressure.
Minister O’Neil noted a decline in migration levels following government interventions since September. Recent statistics indicate a 35 percent decrease in international student visa approvals compared to the previous year.