Australia has announced sweeping changes to student and post-study work visas for 2026, introducing stricter English language requirements, increased fees and a new traffic-light processing system that will significantly impact international students.

Student visa fees have jumped from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000, while minimum IELTS requirements increased to 6.0 overall from the previous 5.5. Financial proof requirements now stand at AUD 29,710 annually for living costs, up from AUD 24,505, with additional AUD 10,394 required for partners and AUD 4,449 per dependent child.

Most significantly, Australia introduced a traffic-light priority processing model under Ministerial Direction 115, effective from 14th November 2025. System categorises universities based on their approved enrolment cap usage. Green zone institutions using below 80 percent of allocation receive fastest processing, amber zone institutions at 80 to 115 percent get standard processing, while red zone institutions exceeding 115 percent face slower processing times.

Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during holidays. However, master's by research and PhD students enjoy unlimited work rights throughout their studies. Major restriction now prevents students on visitor or temporary graduate visas from switching to student visas while in Australia. Applications must be made offshore.

Genuine Student requirement replaced the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant test. Applicants must clearly explain their course choice, how it aligns with their background and career goals, and their commitment to visa compliance.

Post-study work visa underwent significant restructuring. Subclass 485 visa has been renamed with three distinct streams. Post-Higher Education Work Stream covers bachelor's, master's and doctoral graduates. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream applies to vocational training graduates with qualifications linked to skilled occupation lists. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream benefits regional area students.

Age limit for post-study work visa dropped dramatically to 35 years from the previous 50. English requirements also increased, now demanding IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum 5.5 in each band. Results must be issued within 12 months before application.

Visa duration varies by qualification level. Bachelor's and master's by coursework graduates receive two years, while master's by research and PhD holders get three years. Two-year extension for skill shortage degrees introduced in July 2023 has ended. Regional area students can still secure additional one to two years through the Second Post-Study Work stream.

Changes particularly affect Bangladeshi students, who represent a growing segment of Australia's international student population. New processing model means students should carefully research institution compliance records and enrolment capacity before applying.

Department of Home Affairs stated the reforms aim to improve integrity and sustainability of Australia's international education sector while maintaining the country's attractiveness as a study destination.