CoE Requirement for Australian Student Visa Applications Starting 1 January 2025
Neetu Sharma
in Australia Immigration News, Australian Migration Strategy & Policy, Graduate Visa, Skilled Migration News, Student Visa, Student Visa Extension I Student Visa Renewal, Study in Australia
From 1 January 2025, individuals applying for a Student visa while in Australia must provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application. The Department of Home Affairs will no longer accept Letters of Offer for onshore Student visa applications.
Key Changes to Be Aware Of
- Mandatory CoE Requirement: Applications without a CoE will be deemed invalid, preventing assessment and the issuance of Bridging visas.
- Uniform Evidence Standards: This change ensures that both onshore and offshore applicants meet the same criteria for proof of intended study.
- Existing Applications Exempt: Applications lodged before 1 January 2025 using a Letter of Offer will remain unaffected.
Exemptions
Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students can continue to use alternative evidence of their intended course of study.
Reason for the Change
This update aims to strengthen studentsβ commitment to their chosen institutions, providing greater assurance to Australiaβs international education sector.
Steps to Stay Compliant
Secure a CoE from your institution before submitting your student visa application. If you cannot obtain a CoE before your current visa expires, consider departing Australia or exploring other visa options to maintain lawful status.
Note: Itβs essential to note that restrictions now apply to applying for a Student visa in Australia if you hold certain other visas. For details, refer to the Departmentβs guidance on ending βvisa hoppingβ in the migration system.
Prepare ahead to ensure your application complies with the updated requirements.
In a Nutshell:
Starting 1 January 2025, applicants for an Australian Student Visa lodged onshore will need to submit a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) at the time of application, replacing the previous requirement for a Letter of Offer. This change enhances the process by demonstrating a stronger commitment to studying at the chosen institution. Applications without a COE will be considered invalid, and applicants must either leave Australia or explore alternative visa options if they cannot obtain a COE before their current visa expires. The change aligns the requirements for both onshore and offshore student visa applications.
[…] Application Protocols: Starting 1 January 2025, onshore student visa applicants must submit a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with their application. Letters of Offer are no longer accepted, and applications lacking a CoE will be deemed invalid, preventing the issuance of bridging visas. Read More: CoE Requirement for Australian Student Visa Applications Starting 1 January 2025 […]