The Morrison Government announces several latest Australian visa changes for International students to ensure Australia remains a priority destination for International students as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
International students are important to Australia and our economy, contributing $40 billion annually and supporting 250,000 jobs. Many also become great Australian citizens.
While the closure of our international borders has been critical to our success in slowing the spread of the coronavirus, and Australia has been a leader in this regard, it has presented challenges to the education sector and students, both here and offshore.
These five latest Australian visa changes for International students will ensure international students are not worse off for the coronavirus pandemic and that Australia remains competitive with other countries.
The changes include:
The Government will recommence granting student visas in all locations lodged outside Australia. This means when borders reopen, the student will already have visas and be able to make arrangements to travel.
International students will be able to lodge a further student visa application free, if they are unable to complete their studies within their original visa validity due to COVID-19.
Current student visa holders studying online Australia due to COVID-19 will be able to use that study to count towards the Australian study requirement for a post-study work visa.
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 times will be given for applicants to provide English language results where COVID-19 has disrupted access to these services.
Acting Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said the changes provide assurance to international students already in Australia and those who haven’t been able to travel due to COVID-19 border closures.
The Government has previously relaxed work restrictions for international students working in the health, aged and disability care sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also been flexible in cases where the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented international students meeting their visa conditions, such as not being able attend classes in person.