Applying for Student Visa In Australia, Now Requires CoE as Supporting Document
The Department of Home Affairs has announced the implementation of significant changes to the application process for onshore Student visas (Subclass 500) in Australia. Here’s what you need to know:
What are the Key Changes for the Onshore Student (SC500) Visa?
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) Requirement: Onshore applicants must submit a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) when they submit their Student visa application. This replaces the previously accepted Letter of Offer from education providers.
Impact on Applications: This change affects applications lodged on or after 1 January 2025. Applications submitted before this date using only a Letter of Offer will not be impacted.
Invalid Applications: Failure to provide a CoE will result in an invalid application. Visa decision-makers cannot assess invalid applications, and an associated Bridging visa cannot be granted if the substantive visa application is invalid.
Why the Change the Supporting Document Requirements for Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The introduction of the CoE requirement aims to:
Align the evidence requirements for both onshore and offshore Student visa applications.
Demonstrate a stronger commitment from students to study at the institution.
Increase certainty and integrity within Australia’s international education sector.
Please note - there are no changes to the documentation requirements for:
Foreign Affairs or Defence students.
Secondary exchange students.
Visa holders in Australia must ensure they maintain lawful status. If you intend to study and cannot obtain a CoE before your current visa expires, or if you cannot apply for a Student visa due to restrictions on applying for a Student visa while holding certain other visas in Australia, you have two options:
Explore other visa options with an Immigration Lawyer through a Migration Planning Session to figure out which visa suits you best.
Depart Australia.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
These changes underscore the importance of strategic visa planning for those on Student or Graduate visas. Contact us at Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyer(s), and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents specialising in handling highly complex matters. You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
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