Student visa changes require an immediate intake review
New onshore application and family rules took effect on 2 October, with transitional protection for earlier applications.
Application rules commenced. The new student transfer stream is a later, 2027 measure.
What happened
The Government has restricted onshore Student visa applications, tightened family eligibility and extended the principal-course transfer restriction for non-school students to 12 months, subject to exceptions.
Home Affairs confirms applications lodged before 2 October remain assessed under the previous rules. An onshore application lodged by someone required to apply offshore is invalid.
Why it matters
Migration intake must distinguish lodgement dates, current visa categories, location and exemptions before clients commit to applications or study.
The Lawgistics take
Review automated eligibility questions and route uncertain cases to a qualified adviser. Avoid generic assurances that an onshore student application remains available.