There has been a temporary change to student visa work limits due to current workforce shortages in Australia. The relaxed restrictions apply to all industry sectors and are effective immediately. The relaxation of student visa work hours applies to all current international students as well as new Australian student visa holders. International students can now work before starting their studies and are temporarily allowed to work for more than 40 hours a fortnight. This change also applies to secondary applicants.
The Australian Government will review this new arrangement in April 2022. It is important students frequently check for updates.
In addition, Australian student visa holders will be able to claim a refund for their visa application charge if they have traveled to Australia between the 19th of January 2022 and the 19th of March 2022. This refund is redeemable up until the 31st of December 2022.
How do you get a refund for the Australian student visa fees?
If you arrived in Australia on a student visa between the 19th of January 2022 and the 19th of March 2022 you can claim your visa application charge back by visiting Visa Application Charges Refunds for Students and Working Holiday Makers in Australia.
Advice for Students
Time management is essential when committing to extra work. It is important to maintain a healthy balance between study and work - even though you are legally allowed to work additional hours.
Students have the responsibility to stay enrolled in the course, achieve satisfactory progress in studies, and maintain a satisfactory course attendance record. Students who fail to meet these responsibilities may find themselves breaching their visa conditions.
Advice for Employers
Australian workplace law must be followed by employers. Australian law makes it clear that international workers and students are entitled to the same rights as all other employees.
If you are planning to study in Australia, contact Study in Australia Group now for a free consultation! We look forward to welcoming international students back to Australia.
DISCLAIMER
The information on this page was obtained from the Department of Home Affairs website on 11 February 2022. The information is subject to change. Content on this website is not intended for use as immigration or legal advice.