Australia’s student visa framework is evolving, with new restrictions in place to maintain the integrity of the migration system and to ensure that visas are used for their intended purpose – genuine study. Recent legislative updates, policy changes, and ministerial statements have shed light on new measures designed to deter ‘visa hopping’, a practice where individuals frequently change courses or educational providers with the aim of circumventing the system for prolonging stays in Australia.
What’s Changing?
Since 1 July 2024, certain visa holders will no longer be eligible to apply for Student visas while onshore. The intention is to close a pathway that has, until now, been used to repeatedly extend stays in Australia without a clear progression in study.
Visitor visa holders will still be able to study for up to three months; however, any study beyond that period will necessitate an application for Student visa from offshore.
In addition to these measures, Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders are being specifically targeted by the new policy as 32% of subclass 485 visa holders re-enroll into new courses as their visa expires. This change aims to encourage graduates to either transition into skilled employment pathways, pursue permanent residency, or depart Australia, thereby addressing the trend of ‘permanent temporariness’.
These changes complement other recent initiatives – such as the Genuine Student requirement introduced in March 2024, and the imposition of no further stay conditions on visitor visas – that have already been successful in curtailing the practice of switching between student visas without credible course progression. These actions are the result of a strategic effort to better manage population growth and maintain the quality of Australia’s international education system.
Who Can’t Apply Onshore?
The following visa subclasses are directly affected under the new changes:
- Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate)
- Subclass 600 (Visitor)
- Subclass 601 (Electronic Travel Authority)
- Subclass 602 (Medical Treatment)
- Subclass 651 (eVisitor)
- Subclass 988 (Maritime Crew)
In addition, these visa subclasses have already been ineligible for onshore Student visa applications:
- Subclass 403 (Temporary Work – International Relations / Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream)
- Subclass 426 (Domestic Worker (Temporary) – Diplomatic or Consular)
- Subclass 771 (Transit)
- Subclass 995 (Diplomatic Temporary – primary visa holders only)
What Does This Mean for You?
If you are considering studying in Australia, it’s important to understand these changes and plan accordingly:
✅ Plan Your Study Pathway Carefully – Your course selection should align with your long-term career and migration goals. A well-structured study plan demonstrating logical course progression will strengthen your visa application.
✅ Apply for a Student Visa from Offshore if Required – If you are on a visa that is no longer eligible for an onshore Student visa application, be prepared to apply from outside Australia.
✅ Meet the Genuine Student Requirement – Your application must show a genuine intention to study. Be ready to provide strong documentation proving your commitment to your chosen course and institution.
✅ Stay Informed & Seek Professional Advice – Immigration policies frequently change. Keep updated through official sources and consult a migration professional if you’re uncertain about your options.
Australia remains one of the world’s leading study destinations, but stricter rules now mean compliance is more important than ever. Avoid issues by ensuring your study plans align with visa requirements.
Should you have any questions regarding Student visa applications, contact us at migrationaffairs.com.au!
+61 2 8226 8777
Changes to the migration program can occur without notice. The above information is not intended to be legal advice and is correct as of the date of writing this article.
Contact Migrations Affairs to speak with our immigration experts for tailored advice on the circumstances and eligibility.
