New Delhi: Indian students eyeing Australia as a study destination face fresh hurdles after Canberra announced sweeping changes to international student visas aimed at cutting net overseas migration.
Under new rules unveiled by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke on 17 September, most future international students will no longer be allowed to automatically bring partners or children. Only limited exceptions apply — such as for PhD candidates and select students from Pacific and Southeast Asian nations. Families already in Australia will not be separated.
The Labor government is also moving to clamp down on “visa hopping”, whereby students extend their stay by shifting between temporary visas. The measures form part of a broader plan to reduce net overseas migration from 292,000 in March 2026 to 225,000 by 2028.
Universities and higher education experts warn that the cumulative effect of tighter visa settings could undermine Australia’s ability to attract global talent.
Impact on Indian Students
Australia has long been a top choice for Indian students, with its universities offering strong post‑study work opportunities. But the new restrictions could reshape those plans:
Many Indian students, especially married applicants, may now find Australia less attractive compared to Canada or the UK, where dependents’ rights remain more flexible.
Riya Sharma, MBA aspirant from Delhi: “Australia was my first choice because of its lifestyle and work opportunities. But if I can’t take my spouse along, Canada suddenly looks more practical.”
The Australian government aims to slash the international student population from 590,000 to 350,000 over three years, with international graduates staying in that country reduced from 270,000 to just 40,000.
The curbs on visa extensions also mean fewer chances for Indian graduates to transition into long‑term work or residency in Australia.
Arjun Mehta, an engineering student from Bangalore, complained: “The restriction on visa hopping is worrying. Many of us plan to gain work experience before applying for permanent residency. Cutting that pathway makes Australia less appealing.”