Student and Temporary Graduate visa changes 2024
The Australian Government’s Migration Strategy was released on 11 December 2023. The Strategy is designed to further strengthen the integrity and quality of Australia’s international education programs, better protect international students and support graduates to achieve their career goals.
Summary of changes
1. New financial capacity requirement
From 10 May 2024, the financial requirement that applies to Student and Student Guardian visas will be set at $29,710 for an individual student. The new financial requirement apply to any visas lodged on or after 10 May 2024. For more information visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
2. TOEFL iBT has been reinstated for visa purposes
TOEFL iBT is again a valid test for student visa purposes and is accepted by all Australian universities. Please note that tests taken between 26 July 2023, and 4 May 2024, are not valid. Tests taken before 26 July 2023, remain valid for two years.
3. New Genuine Student (GS) requirement
From 23 March 2024, the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement have replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with a list of targeted questions.
4. New English language requirements
From 23 March 2024, new English language requirements apply to all Student Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa applications.
Upcoming changes
1. Temporary Graduate visa length will be reduced
The length of post-study work visas will change. However, Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa will still give you time to gain valuable work experience and demonstrate your skills to Australian employers.
If you gain work in a skilled job during your post-study work period, you may be eligible to apply for the new 4-year Skills in Demand visa. This visa provides a clearer pathway to permanent residency.
This change is intended to come into effect from 1 July 2024.
Initial stay periods for Indian nationals will not change, as agreed in the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. See the Migration Strategy for further details.
Temporary Graduate Visa holders who graduated from an education institution based in a regional area, and who have lived in a regional area for at least 2 years before applying, may be eligible for a second Temporary Graduate visa in the post-study work stream. For more information on smaller cities and regional areas, visit our blog.
2. New age limit for Temporary Graduate visa
The maximum eligible age for Temporary Graduate visa (TGV) applicants will reduce to 35 years of age or under. Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD) graduates will continue be eligible for a TGV if they are under 50 years of age.
This change is intended to come into effect from 1 July 2024.