Highlights:
Implementation Date: March 23, 2024
Policy Change: Australia replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
Objective: To identify students genuinely intending to obtain quality education in Australia.
Student Guardian Visa: The Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement will continue to apply.
Genuine Student Requirement Overview
As part of the Migration Strategy released on December 11, 2023, Australia is replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) student visa requirement with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. This change took effect on March 23, 2024, and applications submitted after this date will be assessed based on the new GS requirement.
Implementation Details
Following discussions with education sector representatives, the Australian Government introduced the new GS requirement to better identify international students genuinely seeking quality education in Australia, rather than using the student visa as a means to migrate.
The 300-word statement previously required on the student visa application form will now be replaced with targeted questions. These questions will provide visa decision-makers with a comprehensive overview of the student.
Targeted Questions Will Cover:
- Current Conditions: Details of the applicant’s family, community, employment, and financial circumstances.
- Course and Destination: An explanation of the chosen course and reasons for selecting Australia as a study destination.
- Course Benefits: What benefits the course provides to the applicant.
- Study History: Details of any prior study history, including whether the applicant has studied in Australia before.
- Other Visas: Reasons for applying for a student visa if the applicant holds other visas.
Student Visa Declaration
Applicants must:
– Understand the purposes of studying in Australia.
– Understand and commit to student visa conditions, and notify the Department of Home Affairs of any needed changes.
– Acknowledge that while post-study pathways exist, they must depart Australia if they cannot remain lawfully after their studies.
