Starting from July 1st, Australia will impose new visa regulations and work-hour restrictions on foreign students. These adjustments are made to help students combine jobs and study more effectively, enabling them to actively participate in their education while also acquiring useful work experience.

Australia has always been a gem for international students. With the recent developments, the students will be further facilitated to focus on education while also contributing to the workforce.

New Work Cap for Student Visa Holders

Australia loosened its rules on student workers' ability to work more than the standard 40 hours per fortnight during the pandemic. In order to solve the labour deficit, this measure was taken. 

Work restrictions, with the exception of those in the elderly care industry, will be reinstated on July 1 nevertheless. To balance education with financial support, holders of student visas will now be permitted to work up to 48 hours every fortnight. 

The holders of student visas who were already employed in the aged care industry as of May 9th, 2023, are permitted to work as many hours as they choose up until December 31, 2023.

In order to abide by visa requirements, it is crucial for students to retain their course enrollment, attend courses on a regular basis, and achieve adequate progress. Failure to do so may constitute a violation of the terms of the visa.

Changes for Indian Graduates in Australia

To make it easier for Indian graduates of Australian educational institutions, new visa requirements have been implemented as part of a bilateral agreement between India and Australia. Indian graduates will be able to apply for up to eight years of employment in Australia starting on July 1, 2023. 

The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES), which allows 3,000 young professionals from India each year to spend two years in Australia without the need for sponsorship for a visa, is a noteworthy part of this arrangement.

Recent graduates with degrees in engineering, mining, finance, artificial intelligence, information & communication technology, agricultural technology, or renewable energy are eligible for the MATES visa programme. Candidates must be younger than 31 years old, fresh graduates, and in the beginning phases of their careers in order to be eligible.

Conclusion

Australia's new immigration policies and work-hour restrictions establish a balance between workforce and educational needs, giving overseas students possibilities while assuring their dedication to their studies. These modifications increase Australia's allure as a top location for higher education and promising professional opportunities.

FAQS

What is the purpose of the new visa rules and work-hour cap?

The new regulations are designed to strike a balance between giving international students an opportunity to get work experience and ensuring that their priorities remain on their studies and meeting Australia's labour market demands.

Will there be any adjustments made to Australia's permanent migration programme?

In order to solve skill shortages and recruit people with specialised skill sets, the permanent migration programme for the years 2023–24 has been established at 190,000 slots.