The Australian Government said it will make new, stricter rules for international students starting on Saturday, March 23, 2024. From that day, students who want to study or stay in Australia after studying will need to show better English skills. Also, schools that keep breaking the rules will not be allowed to accept international students anymore.
This news was shared on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The government is making these changes because more people are moving to Australia, and it is becoming hard for people to find places to live.
What are the Requirements for Australia Tightens Student Visa
Undergraduate Students:
You meet the English requirement if you completed an English subject in your previous studies that is equivalent to an Australian Year 12 level (with required scores).
Postgraduate Students:
You meet the English requirement if you studied at an institution where English was used for all teaching, communication, and assessments for at least one full year.
You may need to provide proof of this from the institution, with a letter from the registrar or authorized person.
Australia Tightens Student Visa Rules:
Australia increased its annual migration in 2022 to help businesses fill staff shortages after the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the country is enforcing stricter visa rules for foreign students as migration reached a record high, further affecting the rental market.
What is the Australian New Visa Rule?
A new “genuine student test” will be introduced to prevent international students from coming to Australia mainly to work. More visitor visas will have “no further stay” conditions. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said these actions aim to reduce migration levels and improve the migration system.
What the Australian New Visa Rule Means for Nigerians
The recent increase in migration was mainly due to students from India, China, and the Philippines. This has led to more workers, but also worsened the housing shortage. Currently, Nigerians don’t need to take English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL to study in Australia, as Australian universities don’t require them if the student’s undergraduate studies were in English.
However, with the new “genuine student test,” Nigerians will also be affected as Australia aims to reduce the number of migrants. Prospective students are advised to start preparing for English proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge ETS.
Is Australia strict with student visas
Yes, Australia has strict requirements for student visas, including proof of enrollment, financial capacity, and sometimes English proficiency. They also assess whether applicants genuinely intend to study rather than work.
Is Australia rejecting a student visa?
Australia does reject student visas if applicants fail to meet the necessary requirements, such as financial stability, English proficiency, or if the authorities believe the applicant is not a genuine student.
Why is Australia tightening immigration?
Australia is tightening immigration to manage the growing number of migrants and to reduce strain on the housing market, while ensuring that migrants contribute to the economy as needed.
What is the new rule for Australia student visa?
The new “genuine student test” will require applicants to demonstrate that their primary purpose for coming to Australia is to study and not to work. More visitor visas will also have “no further stay” conditions
How long can I stay in Australia after my student visa expires?
You cannot stay in Australia after your student visa expires unless you apply for another visa or leave the country. If your visa expires and you stay illegally, you may face penalties or be banned from re-entering Australia.
What is the new immigration policy in Australia 2025?
In 2025, Australia is expected to have stricter rules for student visas, with more emphasis on reducing the number of non-genuine students and focusing on skilled migrants to fill labor shortages.
Is Australia visa banned for 3 years?
If a visa holder violates Australian visa rules or overstays, they may face a ban from re-entering Australia for up to 3 years. This is usually imposed in cases of serious breaches.
How many years in Australia before PR?
For most people, it typically takes around 2 to 4 years in Australia on a skilled or temporary visa before applying for Permanent Residency (PR), depending on the type of visa and your individual situation.
What is the skill in demand visa in Australia?
The Skilled Visa Program allows individuals with skills in demand in Australia to apply for residency. This program targets occupations that are experiencing shortages in the Australian labor market. Applicants must have the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Australia is making its immigration rules stricter, especially for student visas, to manage the increasing number of migrants and housing shortages. The new “genuine student test” will ensure students are coming to study, not work. Nigerians and others may also need to take English tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Australia’s skilled migration program helps fill job shortages, and after living in Australia for a few years, people can apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
If you want to study or move to Australia, make sure you know the updated rules and meet the visa requirements.
