Australia Tightens Student Visa Regulations for Students from Six Indian States: True or not?

For the past few days, news has been circulating that, due to an increase in fraudulent student visa applications, several Australian universities have imposed restrictions on admissions from Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities are saying that some applicants primarily used the student visa for immigration purposes. Read the information provided below to gain a clearer picture.

What Actually Changed?

  • Stricter screening and verification measures for applicants from these states.
  • New financial requirement: A$29,710 (~₹16.5 lakh), increased from A$21,041 in savings, effective May 10, 2024

Government Clarification
The Australian High Commission has dismissed the claims regarding these restrictions, confirming that visa applications from India are still being processed according to global standards. Currently, more than 125,000 Indian students are studying in Australia.

“Australia deeply values Indian students, and the Australian Government welcomes their contribution to our classrooms and Australian society,” a spokesperson of the Australian High Commission in New Delhi stated.

Conclusion

  • There is no blanket ban.
  • Some universities have imposed restrictions on students applying from these states.
  • There is now a stricter screening process in place for applicants from these states.
  • The financial requirements have been increased.
  • Always check the official website for genuine information.

To discuss this and address your concerns, join the conversation on GD Connect, a reliable study abroad forum where students and alumni share genuine experiences and advice.

Source: CNBC TV 18, TOI