Australia Imposes Stricter Student Visa Rules Starting 2026
Australia has introduced stricter student visa rules that will significantly impact international students, including those from India. The new regulations, effective from October 2026, aim to reduce onshore student visa applications and limit the ability of students to bring family members. These changes are part of broader efforts to manage net overseas migration (NOM), which has fallen by nearly 50% since its post-COVID peak.
Key changes include restrictions on applying for student visas while in Australia. Most temporary visa holders, such as those on working holiday or temporary employer visas, can no longer apply for student visas onshore. Existing student visa holders seeking another visa will face stricter requirements, with limited exemptions. Additionally, students will need to remain in their principal course for 12 months before transferring to another provider, up from six months previously.
From July 1, 2027, students seeking to change providers will need to apply through a new student visa transfer stream. Transfers will generally only be permitted at the same or a higher level under the Australian Qualifications Framework. The rules for bringing dependents have also tightened, with family members now allowed only in limited circumstances, such as for PhD students or those receiving government scholarships.
Assistant Minister for International Education Julian Hill emphasized that these reforms aim to strengthen the integrity of the student visa system while continuing to welcome genuine international students. The changes will not affect families already in Australia, as they will be protected under grandfathering arrangements.