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Australia has announced a major change in its student visa application process starting January 2025. From now on, all student visa applications must include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), replacing the previously accepted Letters of Offer. This new requirement aims to bolster the integrity of the visa system and ensure only genuine students are granted visas.
Applications for visas filed without a CoE will be deemed void, according to clarification from the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Because of this, candidates would not be able to get Bridging visas, which could put their legal status in danger if their present visas expire. However, applications submitted utilizing Letters of Offer prior to January 1, 2025, are exempt from this restriction.
Read more: Travel in 2025: Key entry rules and visa changes you need to know
The new procedure requires candidates to be admitted, pay tuition, and obtain a CoE before they can apply for a visa. If they can’t get a CoE before their current visa expires, they may have to seek other visa choices or leave the country to meet immigration requirements.
What is a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)?
A CoE is an official electronic document issued by Australian educational institutions confirming a student’s enrolment in a registered course. It includes essential details such as the student’s personal information, course specifics, programme duration, and associated fees. To obtain a CoE, students must first gain admission, pay the required tuition fees, and confirm their place in the programme.
In the past, offer letters were recognized as evidence of admission. But since they lacked a CoE’s legally binding pledge, they were less successful in discouraging visa abuse.
Why the shift?
The new rule addresses cases when individuals were granted student visas to visit Australia without participating in educational programs. By requesting a CoE, the government intends to improve the authenticity of the visa application process and get rid of bogus applications.
Certain categories, such as Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students, are exempt from this requirement and can continue using alternative evidence of course enrolment.
Read more: New Zealand announces major changes to visa rules; get all the details here
This update is part of Australia’s broader strategy to tighten immigration policies while retaining its appeal as a leading destination for international students. In December 2024, the government introduced Ministerial Direction 111 to accelerate offshore student visa processing, replacing Ministerial Direction 107. Additionally, the cost of international student visas increased in July 2024, rising from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600.
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