Onshore restriction's from 1 Jul 2024 Visitor | Graduate to Student visas

14/06/2024

Breaking News - Important changes from 1st July around requirements to be offshore to apply for a new student visa from 485.

1. Visitor Visa Restrictions:

From 1 July, Visitor Visa holders will no longer be able to apply for Student Visas while onshore. This measure addresses the increasing trend of individuals using visitor visas to circumvent strengthened offshore student visa integrity measures. Over 36,000 applications were made through this pathway from 1 July 2023 to the end of May 2024.

2. Temporary Graduate Visa Restrictions:

Temporary Graduate Visa holders will also be restricted from applying for Student Visas onshore. This change follows findings from the Grattan Institute’s "Graduates in Limbo" report, which highlighted that 32% of Temporary Graduate Visa holders return to study to extend their stay. The government aims to encourage these graduates to secure skilled jobs and pursue permanent residency or leave the country, reducing the phenomenon of 'permanently temporary' residents.

3. Supporting Changes:

- Post-Study Work Rights Reduction: Temporary Graduate Visa holders will face significantly shorter post-study work rights.

- Age Limit Reduction: The maximum age limit for these visa holders will be reduced from 50 to 35 years.

- Increased English Language Requirements: Stricter English language requirements, implemented in March, will also apply.

https://minister.homeaffairs.gov.au/ClareONeil/Pages/ending-visa-hopping-migration-system.aspx?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2GctB_AHx29m7XcG8aGlDOK3Rp8RI2Ebs5fD1aZsgXbrosSViBHxJlMLM_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw