Under the comprehensive Migration Strategy, the Australian Government has implemented decisive policy interventions to curb ‘onshore visa hopping’—the practice of repeatedly switching between short vocational courses to remain in Australia indefinitely.
Key Restrictions Implemented
- Visitor Visa to Student Visa Ban: Tourists holding Subclass 600 visas are barred from applying onshore for a Subclass 500 Student Visa.
- Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Transitions: 485 holders cannot transfer back onto student visas onshore to artificially prolong residency.
- Genuine Student Requirement: Requires demonstrated academic progression and substantial career relevance for further study.
Source: Australian Department of Home Affairs Migration Strategy
