Australia Tightens Immigration Pathways: New Rules for International Students and Skilled Workers

A Shift in Australia's Migration Policy
Australia is undergoing a major migration overhaul under the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. With a goal to manage population growth, reduce net overseas migration, and improve the integrity of the visa system, the government has introduced a series of measures targeting international students and temporary skilled workers. These changes are part of a broader strategy to prioritize highly skilled migrants who can fill workforce gaps while discouraging misuse of the visa system.

Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa
One of the key updates affects the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)—a popular pathway that allows international students to stay in Australia after graduation. This visa has long been used as a stepping stone to permanent residency. However, the government is tightening this route.

Age Restriction
Previously, applicants could be up to 50 years old. Under the new rules, only individuals 35 years or younger are eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa.

Reduced Visa Durations
The length of stay allowed under this visa has been revised:

Bachelor’s degree holders: 2 years

Master’s by coursework: 2 years

Master’s by research: 3 years

PhD graduates: 3 years

Previously, some graduates were eligible for stays of up to 4 years, particularly in certain regional areas. The reduced visa durations aim to streamline the post-study phase and reduce the chances of temporary visas becoming de facto permanent.

Restrictions on Switching Visas
International graduates on a Temporary Graduate Visa are now barred from switching back to a student visa while in Australia. This is intended to prevent continuous cycling through temporary visa categories without progressing toward permanent residency.

Higher English Language Proficiency Standards
Language proficiency is being emphasized more than ever. The government argues that better English skills help international students succeed academically and integrate better into Australian society and workplaces.

Revised IELTS Score Requirements:
Student Visa: Minimum IELTS score increased from 5.5 to 6.0

Temporary Graduate Visa: Raised from 6.0 to 6.5

ELICOS Students: Requirement increased from 4.5 to 5.0

Foundation and Pathway Programs: Set at 5.5

These changes are designed to ensure students are genuinely prepared for the academic and social environment in Australia.

Genuine Student Test Replaces GTE
A significant change in student visa processing is the replacement of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test with a new Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

The GS requirement focuses on verifying a student's true intention to pursue education in Australia, rather than using a study visa primarily as a means to obtain long-term residency. Visa officers will consider factors such as academic background, English skills, financial capacity, and ties to the home country.

Increased Financial Requirements
The Australian government has updated the financial threshold for international students. Applicants must now show they have at least AUD 24,505 in available funds to support their stay in Australia. This increase reflects higher living costs and ensures students are financially prepared.

Sharp Increase in Visa Application Fees
From July 1, 2024, the application fee for a student visa will rise from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600. This substantial increase is part of a broader initiative to manage demand and ensure that only serious candidates apply.

Critics argue the higher cost could deter talented students from low-income backgrounds, especially from developing countries. However, the government maintains that the change is necessary to offset administrative costs and reduce misuse of the system.

Impact on Indian Students: AI-ECTA Offers Some Protection
While these changes may pose challenges, Indian students enjoy certain protections under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). Under this bilateral deal:

• Bachelor’s graduates can stay for 2 years
• Master’s graduates for 3 years
• PhD holders for 4 years

These durations are preserved despite the wider visa changes, offering Indian students more stability in their post-study plans.

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