Visa will now be available to international students wishing to study in Australia. The visas will also be extended to students who are currently taking online classes but have not managed to return to the country.
The Australian government has commenced issuing of student visas to international students, after months of lockdown that saw immigration offices scaling back on visa issuance. This comes amidst a renewed hope that the country has been able to deal with the scourge of coronavirus that had spread across the country.
International students contribution to Australia
International students are the third largest exports for Australia, and the government has been trying to revive the industry once again, after months of university shutdowns. Cash strained universities that rely on international students to balance the books have also been at the forefront asking the government to reconsider issuing visas again in the country.
On Monday, acting immigration minister Alan Tudge announced the changes that would also see students getting visas which will be effective as soon as borders reopen. The announcement also included an allowance for free applications of visas for students who were hindered by coronavirus to complete their studies and also allowing students who are studying online through Australia universities, regardless of which country they are in, become eligible for work visas once their studies complete.
Caution on the new announcement
While making the announcement, Tudge said that the government was prepared to ensure that Australia will continue to remain the top destination for international students. The emphasis came amidst a drop in the number of international students in the country, and China warning her citizens not to travel to Australia for studies, in a diplomatic row.
The announcement, although a relief to many universities, was welcomed cautiously Universities Australia’s chief executive, Catriona Jackson, saying the changes were much needed and they came at the right time. She, however, cautioned by saying that a deeper understanding of these changes on prospective students needed to be understood. She also urged new students and current students to be incorporated in the new visa announcement rules.
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