Many Indian students’ aspirations to study in Australia could now feel more distant as the country strengthens its visa regulations. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the Australian government has proclaimed a rise in the required proof of savings for international students to be eligible for a study visa. This modification, being the second increase within seven months, necessitates students to show savings of no less than AUD29,710 ($19,576).
Previously, the requirement for students was to have AUD24,505 ($16,146) in savings. This recent increase, therefore, marks a significant boost of $3,430. It’s important to remember that 1.5177 Australian dollars is equivalent to $1.
In light of the increasing migration trends and issues of deceitful methods in the acquisition of students, it’s worth mentioning that the Albanese administration has implemented a range of stringent measures for student visa processing, such as the obligatory IELTS score criteria.
The most recent change in the savings proof requirement comes after a prior hike in October, when it was raised from AUD Australia’s stern policy on student visas, designed to cut down yearly immigration by 50%, has significantly affected students from India. Accusations of biased visa denials for Indian candidates have stoked worry, with a past Australian envoy to India cautioning about possible impacts on two-way ties.21,041 to AUD24,505.
Major Decline In Indian Student Visas.
Reports indicate a significant 48% decrease in the issuance of Australian student visas to Indians between December 2022 and December 2023, despite India being the second biggest contributor to Australia’s international student population.
Despite this, India continues to play a major role, accounting for around 1.22 lakh Indian learners studying in Australian universities from January to September 2023.
Moreover, the government is taking proactive measures to combat deceitful behaviours among educational organizations. Cautionary notices have been dispatched to 34 potential culprits who are believed to be involved in “non-authentic or manipulative recruitment strategies”.
Clare O’Neil, the Australian Minister for Home Affairs, has declared that such measures are intended to eradicate improper conduct and protect the reputation of the global education industry.
O’Neil declared in a pronouncement: “Our international education sector has no room for unscrupulous providers. These measures will aid in eliminating those low-tier entities in the sector who aim to take advantage of individuals and tarnish the sector’s image.”
The international education sector in Australia, an essential export industry that added AUD$36.4 billion ($24 billion) to the nation’s economy in 2022/23, is grappling with issues resulting from a rise in immigration, mainly influenced by foreign students. The pressure on resources, particularly the rental markets, has led the government to reconsider its immigration policies. They expect a considerable decrease in the number of immigrants over the forthcoming two years.
“The Australian Home Affairs Minister declared that they are drastically trimming down migration levels, signifying the most profound dip in migration figures in Australia’s history, barring instances of war or pandemic.”
