Australia tightens student visa rules as migration reaches new peak

Australia wants to ensure international students come to the country for genuine studies, not just work.

Australia is tightening the student visa process to reduce the overall inflow of migrants. The stricter rules come as official data reveals record-high migration, putting a strain on the housing market. Australia saw a record number of migrants in 2023, and the inflow was driven by students from India, China and the Philippines.

Australia wants to ensure international students come to the country for genuine studies, not just work.

They'll achieve this by introducing a "genuine student test" and limiting work options for some visitors with "no further stay" conditions on their visas.

Starting this Saturday, Australia will raise the English language proficiency needed for student and graduate visas.

Additionally, the government will have the authority to suspend education providers who consistently violate visa regulations when recruiting international students.