News

Major changes to Australia’s Student visa program commenced on 2 October 2026. The reforms restrict onshore Student visa applications, tighten course progression requirements, significantly limit family members and introduce tougher provider-transfer rules.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has announced major changes to Australia’s migration system affecting international students, Visitor visas, Working Holiday visas, skilled migration, visa overstayers and migration agents. ILM Australia examines the key announcements, what they could mean for visa holders and applicants, and why commencement dates and transitional arrangements will be critical.

A Student visa refused under PIC 4020 over alleged bogus financial documents was successfully challenged at the ART before ultimately being granted by Home Affairs. Read the three-year journey from refusal to visa grant.

Australia has used new ESOS integrity powers for the first time to stop new international student enrolments in a Graduate Diploma, signalling increased scrutiny of course transfers and student visa pathways.

The Administrative Review Tribunal has updated its processing times for Australian migration and protection reviews. We examine the latest figures, what has changed and what visa applicants waiting for an ART decision need to know.