The Australian government has announced plans to increase the financial requirements for international students seeking visas. Starting this Friday, students will be required to demonstrate savings of at least A$29,710 (approximately $19,576), marking the second hike in just seven months. The previous increase in October raised the required savings from A$21,041 to A$24,505.
This change is part of a broader initiative to manage the nation’s record-high migration levels, which have surged following the removal of COVID-19 restrictions in 2022.
In addition to financial requirements, the Australian government has also toughened other aspects of the student visa process. English language prerequisites were raised in March, and measures have been implemented to prevent the misuse of visa settings that previously allowed students to extend their stays in the country indefinitely.
Furthermore, authorities have issued warnings to several educational institutions regarding the legitimacy of their student recruitment practices.
Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil stated that 34 educational institutions received warning letters for engaging in “non-genuine or exploitative recruitment practices.” According to O’Neil, those found guilty could face up to two years in prison and be prohibited from recruiting students. (NewsWire)
