Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has recently announced significant changes to the visa requirements for international students, including an increase in the minimum savings threshold.
Under the new rules, international students must now demonstrate savings of at least AUD 29,710 ($19,576) to qualify for a student visa, marking a rise of $3,430 from the previous requirement of AUD 24,505 ($16,146). These adjustments come amid concerns over fraudulent recruitment practices and a surge in migration, prompting the Australian government to tighten student visa regulations and curb immigration.
Additionally, the government has raised the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score required for visa eligibility. This recent change follows a previous increase in October, when the savings requirement was raised from AUD 21,041 to AUD 24,505. These measures have notably affected Indian students, with a significant decline in visas granted to them between December 2022 and December 2023, amounting to a 48% decrease. Despite this decline, India remains the second-largest source country for international student enrolments in Australia, with approximately 122,000 Indian students studying in the country between January and September 2023.
However, the Australian government’s crackdown on education providers suspected of fraudulent practices has contributed to the decline in numbers. These adjustments are part of a series of changes Australia has made to its student visa policies in response to the challenges posed by immigration, particularly in rental markets.
With net immigration rising by 60% to a record 548,800 in the year leading up to September 30, 2023, the government aims to reduce annual immigration by half over the next two years. This decline in migration numbers is unprecedented outside of war or pandemic situations, according to Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil. Stricter student visa requirements and alleged targeted visa denials to students from specific countries have led to the decrease in international student numbers since 2023.
The Australian government seeks to balance the integrity of the international education sector with concerns about housing and resources. However, these changes may pose challenges and financial burdens for Indian students, given their significant representation in Australia’s international student population. The impact of these measures on bilateral relations between India and Australia is a matter of concern, with some experts warning of potential strains on the relationship.
