On December 11, 2023, Australia revealed a groundbreaking plan to transform its immigration system. This comprehensive Migration Strategy, designed for the next 10 years, aims to make immigration fair and align with the country’s goals. As part of this plan, the Australian Immigration Department is updating the rules for students who want to study in Australia. The changes ensure that the immigration system is fair and meets national objectives. They want to be sure that people coming to the country follow the right rules. Specifically, the new rules for student visas mean that international students must do better on English tests. There will also be more careful checks on a student’s second visa application to make sure everything is in order. These changes are meant to improve the system and make sure everyone follows the right steps.
Key Highlights of the Migration Strategy:
- The Migration Strategy outlines eight key actions and over 25 new policy commitments to make big changes.
- The Australian Immigration Department is set to modify Student Visa requirements to align with Migration Visas, targeting misuse and ensuring genuine study purposes. Changes aim to revamp this visa category. This visa will now be for people with skills that Australia needs.
- Creation of a new specialist visa for individuals earning over $135,000 annually, targeting growth industries like cyber and green technology.
- Measures to prevent the misuse of student visas as a “back door” for low-skilled workers.
- Stringent rules for international students and low-skilled workers, aiming to reduce migrant intake.
- Stricter language requirements for student visas, aligning them with skilled visa standards.
English Language Test Update
In early 2024, the Government will increase English language requirements for the Student and Temporary Graduate visas:
- The test score required for a Temporary Graduate visa will increase from an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score (or equivalent) of 6.0 to 6.5
- The test score required for a Student visa will increase from IELTS (or equivalent) 5.5 to 6.0
- The test score required for students undertaking an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) before their main course of study will increase from IELTS (or equivalent) 4.5 to 5.0
- The test score required for students undertaking university foundation or pathway programs that deliver reputable English language training will be IELTS (or equivalent) 5.5.
Temporary Graduate Visa Update
Change Set For July 2024
It is to be noted that the new commitments listed above are not exhaustive, it means that the listed commitments and actions provided are not complete. There may be additional commitments, actions, or details that have not been explicitly mentioned in the given information. Follow us on our social media or consult our experts for updates.
