Australia moves to curb student visa switching and tighten migration agent rules

Assistant Minister for International Education Julian one outlet told the Migration Institute of Australia that the government will stop “visa hopping” by requiring a fresh visa for any course transfer and by preventing students from switching courses within the first year of enrolment. From 1 July 2027, visa extensions will no longer be granted for such transfers. The package also seeks to bar migration agents who knowingly assist baseless applications and will consult on extending similar duties to migration lawyers.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke framed the changes as essential to restoring confidence in the migration system. They form part of a broader effort to lower net overseas migration from almost 300,000 to 225,000 by 2028, despite the government lacking support from the Coalition or Greens. Reducing the over-400,000 people on bridging visas, many of whom are students awaiting new visas, is another stated objective.