On 16 June 2015 the Australian Government released the Future directions for streamlined visa processing report and announced the introduction of a simplified student visa framework (SSVF) to support Australia’s education services sector.

Subject to the regulatory change process, it is expected that the SSVF will be implemented by mid-2016.

Key changes under the simplified student visa framework (SSVF)

Key changes under the SSVF are:

• a reduction in the number of student visa subclasses from eight to two; and
• the introduction of a simplified single immigration risk framework for all international students.

What’s the reason for change?

The changes are designed to make the student visa framework simpler to navigate for genuine students, deliver a more targeted approach to immigration integrity and create a level playing field for all education providers throughout Australia.

SSVF Commencement Date

Subject to the regulatory change process, it is expected that the SSVF will be implemented from mid-2016.

Applying for a student visa under the SSVF

The SSVF is intended to replace existing streamlined visa processing and AL framework arrangements.

What is the impact of the SSVF on existing student visa holders?

The SSVF is intended to apply only to student visa applications lodged after the middle of 2016 and is not expected to affect existing student visa holders.

Applying for a student visa prior to the introduction of the SSVF

Current student visa processing arrangements will remain unchanged until the SSVF is implemented in mid-2016.

If you are interested in applying for a student visa into Australia, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of Registered Migration Agents.