Visa
New rules are already in effect
Study Australia, the Australian Government education information service, published guidance on 7 October explaining Student visa reforms that took effect on 2 October 2026. The changes concern applications made inside Australia, Student Guardian applications and the inclusion of family members. They do not invalidate current Student visas.
Most temporary visa holders, including Working Holiday Maker and Skills in Demand holders, can no longer lodge a Student visa application while in Australia. Existing Student visa holders also generally cannot lodge a further onshore Student visa application unless an exemption applies. The guidance identifies exemptions including specified doctoral, school and course-completion circumstances.
Families must check the relevant exemption
Including family members in a new Student visa application is also restricted, subject to stated exemptions and transitional arrangements. Applications lodged before 2 October continue to be assessed under the rules applying when they were lodged. Proposed further changes, including a Transfer stream, are still being developed and should not be presented as completed rules.
Questions to prepare before making plans
Applicants can use a consultation to clarify three separate issues: where a new application may be lodged, whether family members can be included, and what happens to their existing permission while plans are reviewed. Prepare current visa details, course dates and family information for that discussion. VisaWand recommends obtaining answers before committing to travel or enrolment changes; the official guidance provides the operative requirements.
