Latest Updates to Student Visa Immigration Conditions
The Morrison Government is issuing 5 major updates to student visa arrangements in efforts to ensure Australia remains a priority destination for international student immigration during the COVID-19 pandemic.
International student immigration contributes $40 billion annually and supports 250,000 jobs, making international students extremely important to the Australian economy.
These visa changes aim to make it easier for international students to cope with the devastating impacts of COVID-19, ensuring Australia remains a competitive destination for international student immigration.
These changes include:
- Government will recommence granting student visas to new students offshore, so when borders reopen, student already have valid visas and can make travel arrangements
- International students can apply for a student visa extension free of charge if they are unable to complete their studies within the original visa validity due to COVID-19
- For Student visa holders studying online outside Australia due to COVID-19 restrictions, online study outside Australia will be counted towards Australian post study work visa requirements
- Graduates who held a student visa will be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa outside Australia if they are unable to return due to COVID-19
- Additional time to provide English language results will be given to applicants who need to submit English Language results where COVID-19 has disrupted access to these services