Finally, some good news for international students in Australia!
The Australian Government has announced several changes to Student visa arrangements, in an attempt to limit the impact of COVID-19 on international students.
The changes are designed to ensure the country remains a priority study destination for study, following the pandemic.
It comes as welcome news for many international students, who have been stranded offshore due to border restrictions.
The changes to Student visas will impact students who are both in Australia and outside the country.
Here are the key things you need to know.
- The Government will recommence granting student visas for those who are offshore. This means students will be ready to travel when borders reopen
- Free application for international students who lodge further Student visa applications. (If they were unable to complete their studies within their original visa validity due to COVID-19.)
- Current student visa holders studying online outside Australia due to COVID-19 will be able to use that study to count towards the Australian study requirement for a Post-Study Work visa.
- Graduates who held a Student visa will be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa (485 visa) outside Australia if they are unable to return due to COVID-19.
- Additional time will be given for applicants to provide English language results where COVID-19 has disrupted access to these services.
The Government has previously relaxed work restrictions for international students working in the health, aged and disability care sectors during COVID-19.
It has also been flexible in cases where the pandemic has prevented international students meeting their visa conditions.
If you have any questions about your visa and how you should proceed, book an appointment here.
Our Migration Superhero Sarah Gillis can discuss your options and outline the best path forward for you. If you are outside the country, she can meet via Zoom – so you won’t miss out!
