If you are planning to apply for a student visa in Australia, then this is for you. The country has now tightened scrutiny of Indian applicants and moved India to the ‘highest risk category’ for student visas. This means one thing. It could now be much harder to secure a student visa. Here’s everything you need to know about this recent update.
Australia Moves India To ‘Highest Risk Category’
On January 8, 2026, India was moved from Evidence Level 2 to Evidence Level 3 under Australia’s Simplified Student Visa Framework. According to a report by The Economic Times, this shift means tighter scrutiny for Indian applicants. The reason cited for this move is ‘emerging integrity risks’. Reportedly, India has now joined Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan in the highest-risk group.
It is also reported that the Australian administration aims to manage integrity concerns while ensuring that only genuine students are allowed to study in the country. The government also wants international students to have a positive study experience during their stay in Australia.
Indian Students To Face Stricter Checks For Visa
According to a report by The Times of India, Indian students applying for a student visa will now face stricter checks. Officials may ask for additional documents, and background checks could be more rigorous. Bank statements will also be manually verified. Visa officers now have the authority to ask for additional English language proof and even contact institutions. The student visa processing time may take anywhere between three to eight weeks.
So, what could be the main reason behind Australia moving India to the ‘highest risk category’? According to a report by The Times of India, no single reason has been officially stated. However, the decision reportedly follows multiple fake degree busts in India that made international headlines. There has also been an increase in fraudulent financial and academic documents submitted by many Indian applicants.
You would like to know that India currently accounts for nearly 140,000 of Australia’s 650,000 international students. By placing India in the highest-risk category, Australian authorities aim to filter out fraudulent student visa applications.
Also Read: US Embassy Warns B1/B2 Visa Holders: Misuse Of Visa Can Lead To Permanent Travel Ban
What do you think about this decision taken by Australia for Indian students? Share your thoughts with us.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Richie Chan and AndreyPopov (Representative Image)
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