Australia overhauls student visa rules for 2025: What you need to know
CoE now required for all student visas, along with higher application fees
Australia is tightening its student visa application process starting January 1, 2025, with a new requirement for all onshore applicants to include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
This replaces the previously accepted Letter of Offer, a move aimed at strengthening the integrity of the international education sector and curbing visa misuse.
A CoE is an official document issued by educational institutions, confirming a student’s enrolment in a registered course. It serves as proof of genuine intent to study and includes vital details like course duration, fees, and the student’s personal information.
Under the updated rules:
- Applications without a CoE will be considered invalid.
- Onshore students must secure a CoE before their current visa expires to avoid legal complications.
- The change applies only to applications submitted from January 1, 2025.
Implications for students
The new policy significantly impacts students in Australia, particularly those transitioning between visas. Without a CoE, applications will not be processed, leaving students ineligible for Bridging visas. This could result in visa gaps, forcing applicants to explore alternative options or leave the country.
“Providing a CoE demonstrates a stronger commitment to study and enhances certainty for Australia’s education sector,” stated a Department of Home Affairs spokesperson.
Exemptions to the rule
Certain categories, including Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students, remain exempt from the CoE requirement. These groups can continue to provide alternative evidence of enrolment.
Steps to prepare
Students are urged to act proactively to align with the new rules:
- Confirm admission to a registered course.
- Pay tuition fees and obtain a CoE promptly.
- Monitor visa expiry dates to avoid disruptions.
Educational institutions are also expected to guide students through the transition, ensuring compliance with the updated policies.
Increased visa fees
Alongside the CoE mandate, international students are grappling with increased visa fees. In July 2024, the cost of applying for a student visa surged from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 – a hike aimed at funding improvements in the visa system but adding financial strain on applicants.
The introduction of the CoE requirement aligns with Australia’s broader efforts to streamline immigration processes and maintain its appeal as a top study destination. Recent measures, such as Ministerial Direction 111, have prioritised faster offshore visa processing, while fee increases reflect the government’s focus on sustainability.
For students planning to study in Australia, these changes underscore the importance of preparation and awareness. Failing to adapt to the new rules could result in delays or disruptions to study plans.