Australia’s New Migration Rules – Key Points For Indian Students

Australia’s recent announcement of a revamped migration strategy has sent ripples through the educational landscape, particularly impacting Indian students aspiring to study Down Under. In a bid to overhaul its migration system, the Australian government aims to reduce migrant intake to pre-Covid levels, introducing a slew of changes that include a ‘Genuine Student Test’ and elevated English language requirements.

Understanding the Reforms

The cornerstone of the new migration strategy is the implementation of a ‘Genuine Student Test’ for all international students. This pre-departure test seeks to ensure that only bona fide students embark on their educational journey to Australia. While the detailed timeline for the policy’s formal introduction is yet to be disclosed, the reforms are anticipated to be gradually implemented in the coming months.

High English Language Requirements

One of the significant shifts in the migration landscape involves higher English language requirements. For graduate visa applicants, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) band score has been elevated to 6.5, up from the existing 6.0. Similarly, student visa applicants must now achieve a 6.0 band score in IELTS, compared to the previous requirement of 5.5.

Impact on Student Visas and Work Opportunities

Under the new strategy, students who successfully clear the IELTS for a student visa may encounter additional hurdles. The introduction of a second IELTS test before completing the degree adds a layer of complexity, with temporary graduate visas or working rights granted only upon clearing this additional hurdle. This may impact the ability of students to seamlessly transition from study to work.

Changes In Genuine Student Test

The Genuine Student Test aims to scrutinise the intentions of students, ensuring they are genuinely pursuing education in Australia. This strategic move seeks to address concerns related to job availability post-study, potentially impacting the ability of students to extend their stay in the country.

Changes in Graduate Visa Transfers and ‘Specialist Skills Pathways

According to Gaurav Chaudhary from Edu Planet, the migration strategy restricts temporary graduate visa holders from transferring back to a student visa onshore. However, a silver lining appears in the form of a proposed ‘specialist skills pathway.’ This pathway, open to applicants earning at least AUD 135,000 annually, aims to accommodate skilled individuals across various occupations.

What Are The Top Concerns and Predictions?

Harshwinder Singh, a Melbourne-based permanent resident, expresses concerns about the potential hindrance to students’ ability to switch courses and enhance their chances of obtaining permanent residency. The Genuine Student Test, in his view, may act as a deterrent for those seeking opportunities beyond education.

While the migration reforms are set to reshape the landscape, the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) remains intact. Indian graduates will continue to enjoy post-study work visas, offering them opportunities to stay temporarily based on their educational qualifications.

CONCLUSION:

As the dust settles on Australia’s ambitious migration strategy, the implications for Indian students become clearer. While challenges emerge, the commitment to upholding the AI-ECTA provisions provides a ray of hope for Indian graduates. These changes will require adaptability and strategic planning, ensuring that aspiring students can still make the most of educational opportunities in Australia. The evolving scenario deserves a close watch as the migration strategy unfolds and its impact rolls through the educational aspects.