Indian students face tough choices as Australia restricts family visas: Inside Canberra’s sharp immigration turn
The changes come as political pressure over Australia's high migration levels grows, with the hard-right One Nation party gaining ground in recent opinion polls.
Australia is tightening its immigration system, with international students losing the ability to bring partners and children while studying. New measures also include stricter rules for working holiday visa holders and increased enforcement against overstayers. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced the changes, stating they are not a response to the growing support for the One Nation party.
The government expects annual net migration to drop to around 225,000 by 2028, closer to pre-pandemic levels. The new measures will affect Indian students most significantly, as they will no longer be able to bring spouses or children with them on most student visas. PhD candidates are expected to still retain family arrangements.
The government also plans to strengthen enforcement of immigration rules by recruiting 100 additional compliance officers.
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