Australian universities restrict applications from Indian states over visa misuse

Australia has introduced stricter student visa measures targeting six Indian states, following a sharp rise in allegedly fraudulent applications.

The tightened rules apply to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir and have sparked widespread concern among aspiring students and education consultants.

Universities have flagged growing misuse of the visa system, prompting swift action.

Authorities in Australia have expressed growing unease over the increasing number of international student visa applicants who, they allege, are using education as a pathway to permanent residency rather than for genuine academic purposes.

In response, several Australian universities have imposed new restrictions on applications from these high-risk regions.

While some institutions have completely stopped processing applications from these states, others have opted for intensified verification procedures.

The objective, they say, is to safeguard the integrity of Australia's international education sector — a cornerstone of the country's economy and global engagement — which has reportedly been compromised by inconsistencies in student documentation.

In an effort to restore trust in the system, universities are now collaborating closely with the Department of Home Affairs to tighten the visa screening process.

Amid these developments, the Australian government has also updated its student visa fee structure.

Although a comprehensive breakdown has not yet been released, many universities have already raised tuition for international students starting in 2025 — in some cases by more than 7%.

At the University of Melbourne, annual tuition fees for engineering have surged to ₹30.36 lakh, while clinical medicine programs now cost as much as ₹60.66 lakh.

This marks the second significant increase in costs within a year.

Back in July 2024, the student visa fee more than doubled — jumping from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 (₹39,546 to ₹89,118).

The sharp rise in expenses has drawn backlash from students and education consultants alike.

Nonetheless, the Albanese government has stood by the changes, framing them as part of a broader strategy to invest in quality education.

“International education is an incredibly important national asset, and we need to ensure its integrity and quality,” said Minister for Education Jason Clare.