Overhaul of Student Visa Migration Program.

Overhaul of Student Visa Migration Program

The Commonwealth Government has also indicated intended changes to the Student Visa Migration Program. These include:

a. Introduction of a Genuine Student Test for all international students, to replace the current Genuine Temporary Entrantrequirement.

b. Prioritisation of student visa processing based on the risk-level of providers.

c. Increased English language requirements for international students:

·      IELTS 5.0 or equivalent for ELICOS student visa applicants

·      IELTS 5.5 or equivalent for student visa applicants undertaking foundation or pathway programs with reputable English language training providers

·      IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for other student visa applicants

·      IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for Temporary Graduate visa applicants

d. Reduced age limit for Temporary Graduate visa applicants from 50 to 35 years of age

e. Reduced length of stay for Temporary Graduate visa holders to 2 years for bachelor and master by coursework awards, and to 3 years for master by research and PhD awards

f. Temporary Graduate visa holders may be eligible for a second visa of up to 2 years depending on in regional areas: eligibility for second visa of 1-2 years in length depending on regional location.

The changes have not yet been implemented. For further information, please contact us.