Insights for
Global Students

In an attempt to survive this pandemic, Australia, like many western nations, closed its borders to the outside world, earning the name "Fortress Australia".

Although other countries such as the United States and the UK began opening their borders amid the high number of Covid cases within them, Australia maintained its stance of keeping its people as its utmost priority and stayed closed until November 2021.

After almost 21 months, Australia opened its borders to international students again on December 15, 2021, providing plenty of opportunities for international students seeking higher education in Australia. Let us take a look at a few of those.

Quarantine-Free Travel To Australia

From December 15, 2021, fully-vaccinated international travellers, including students, were permitted to travel without quarantine.

Post-Study Work Extended

The stay period on the temporary graduate visa for masters by coursework graduates increased from two to three years, allowing students to pursue post-study work for up to 6 years after completing their study programs.

Part-Time Work Hours Increased

The government temporarily removed the limit on the student visa holders' working hours across all sectors.

Visa Fee Rebate

International student visa holders arriving in Australia between January 19, 2022, and March 19, 2022, have been made eligible to claim a visa fee rebate (AUD 630) until December 31, 2022.

Funds To Support International Students

The government has allocated funds of USD 11 million for Indian students' support.

With the above policies, it is evident that the Australian government is set to lay out the red carpet to welcome international students back into Australia. The demand for the Australian student visa is already up, which signifies that students continue to consider Australia as one of the top destinations where they would like to pursue their study abroad aspirations.

Due to the labour shortages in Australia, opportunities have opened up for part-time and full-time work for skilled international students. Thus, now is the time to consider Australia as it opens up opportunities and makes itself a destination where international students can thrive and achieve their career goals.

Note: The above information and data have been gathered from various sources, including news from the Department of Home Affairs and credible news agencies.