Australia’s recent adjustments to its student visa regulations are impacting individuals from India seeking education opportunities in the country. Effective May 10, 2024, the Australian government has heightened the financial prerequisites for international students aspiring to study in Australia. Now, students must demonstrate savings equivalent to 75% of the national minimum wage, totaling A$29,710 (₹16,29,964), to be eligible for a visa.
The rationale behind this amendment is to ensure that students possess sufficient funds to cover their living expenses while studying in Australia. It takes into account the possibility that students may not be engaged in classroom activities for approximately 25% of the academic year, during which they might seek employment to sustain themselves. By meeting this financial criterion, students can better plan their educational pursuits in Australia.
This is the second adjustment in seven months, following a previous increase from A$21,041 (₹11,54,361) to A$24,505 (₹13,44,405) in October. These alterations reflect the Australian government’s response to concerns regarding an influx of individuals relocating to the country following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in 2022. This surge in migration has resulted in challenges such as a shortage of rental accommodations.
In addition to financial requirements, the Australian government has enhanced other visa provisions to support international students:
The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement has been replaced with a Genuine Student (GS) requirement to ensure that students genuinely intend to pursue studies rather than primarily seeking work opportunities.
Post-Study Work Rights (PSWR) have been extended by up to two years from July 1, 2023, enabling students to seek employment relevant to their field of study.
International students enrolling in universities and programs are now required to attain a minimum total score of 5.5.
Work hours during study terms and semesters have been restricted to 48 hours per fortnight since July 1, 2023.
The Skilled-Recognised Graduate visa, which previously allowed recent engineering graduates to remain, work, or study in Australia for up to 18 months, now has a capped duration as of December 22, 2023.
International students are prohibited from enrolling in two courses simultaneously within the first six months of their primary course, effective September 8, 2023.
These measures collectively aim to maintain the integrity of Australia’s student visa system while providing support and opportunities for international students pursuing education in the country.