Early in 2022, the Department of Home Affairs temporarily relaxed the work rights for international student visa holders.
Ordinarily, international students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while holding a Student visa. In order to combat labour shortages as a result of the impact of Covid-19, these restrictions have been temporarily relaxed, and student visa holders are able to work more than 40 hours a fortnight.
As of 30th June 2023, working restrictions will be in place again and international students will only be able to work up to 40 hours a fortnight. These restrictions are in place to ensure that international students are able to focus on obtaining a high-quality Australian education and qualification.
What is an international student visa?
A student visa allows international students to stay in Australia for up to five years in line with their enrolment in an Australian educational institution.
In order to be eligible for this visa, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in the course of study in Australia
- Be 6 years of age or older
- Provide evidence of English language skills unless exempted
- Provide proof of a welfare arrangement if they are under 18 years of age
- Hold overseas student health cover or fall into an exemption category
- If in Australia, hold an eligible substantive visa
- Have enough money to pay for your stay in Australia. You may be required to provide evidence of financial capacity.
- Be a genuine temporary entrant and show that you are coming to Australia temporarily to gain a quality education.
- Meet the character and health requirements.
It is essential that students balance their studies and work commitments. Student visa holders who cancel their enrolment, stop attending classes, or fail to meet satisfactory course progress may breach their visa conditions resulting in visa cancellation.
International Students Situation
One unfortunate case of a student visa holder in breach of Australian visa conditions is that of a student who was working more hours than allowed under their visa. The student, who was only permitted to work 20 hours per week, was found to be working 40 hours per week, a clear violation of their visa conditions.
As a result, the student’s visa was canceled, and they had to leave the country immediately. This not only disrupted the student’s education and career plans but also caused emotional distress and financial hardship.
It is vital for student visa holders in Australia to be aware of their visa conditions and adhere to them strictly to avoid such a situation. The Australian Department of Home Affairs regularly monitors compliance with visa conditions and takes strict action against those found to be in breach.
Ready to speak to a member of the Visa Solutions team about migration? Book a consultation today.
