The Australian Government announced today they are making changes to Student and Graduate Visa processing arrangements to ensure Australia remains a priority destination for international students when travel restrictions ease.
There are five major processing changes going to happen to ensure international students are not worse off due to the coronavirus pandemic. This also includes students currently in Australia.
ONE
The Government will recommence granting student visas in all locations lodged outside Australia. This means when borders re-open, students will already have visas and be able to make arrangements to travel.
TWO
International students will be able to lodge a further student visa application free of charge, if they are unable to complete their studies within their original visa validity due to COVID-19.
THREE
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.
FOUR
Graduates who held a student visa will be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa outside Australia if they are unable to return due to COVID-19.
FIVE
Additional time will be given for applicants to provide English language results where COVID-19 has disrupted access to these services.
Acting Minister for Immigration, Mr Trudge said today,
“These measures back the international education sector – our fourth largest export sector – and will assist its recovery,”
Now Mr Trudge indicated how important international students are to the economy and that is all well and good but he fails to help those stranded outside of Australia on other temporary visas. There are many on 482, 485, 489, 300 and others visas who are desperate to get back because their visas are going to expire.
What are you going to do about these poor souls Mr Trudge.
Time to demonstrate some leadership and not just focus on what money international students bring in, these are other visa holders are just as important and need your help!
Let’s hope something is done to help all temporary resident visa holders who have suffered because of this Pandemic.
These new changes are going to be complicated so call +61 2 8054 2537 or book online today to speak to our migration specialists.
