Important changes to student visa processing

As of December 19, 2024, a new updated directive, Ministerial Direction No. 111, was introduced to enhance the integrity of Australia’s education sector through streamlined processing. These changes apply to both pending and newly submitted applications.

Key takeaways:
The directive establishes a new priority processing framework with the following priorities:

1. Priority 1 – High:
   Allocated to education providers in the higher education and vocational sectors operating below 80% of their allocation for new overseas students.

2. Priority 2 – Standard:
   Applies to education providers exceeding the 80% threshold and other applications.

It is important to note that there is no cap on the number of visas issued, nor does the directive alter the criteria for visa approval or refusal.

Additionally, effective January 1, 2025, applicants must provide their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application. Previously, Letters of Offer were accepted, but this is no longer the case. Applications submitted before January 1, 2025, will not be affected.