Student Visa Applications

Letter to the Editor - Australian Financial Review
16 September 2005

Dear Sir/Madam

Bob Oliver is mistaken on several issues about overseas student visa application claims (Frustrations in visa applications, 9/09/05).

Australia was the first country to establish clear and open pathways to migration for successful overseas students.

Overseas students, who have completed a qualification in Australia as a result of at least two years study, are able to apply for a range of permanent onshore visas without having to first leave Australia.

In addition, applicants do not need to wait until they have been awarded their qualification before applying. They only need to demonstrate that they have completed their course of study and met other eligibility criteria.

While their application is being processed, applicants are granted a visa that allows them to remain in Australia. This visa also allows them to work with any employer.

In 2004-05 Program year, 14 441 onshore permanent visas, under the General Skilled Migration visa classes, were granted to overseas students who had studied in Australia. Of those granted a permanent visa, just over 4000 (4074) nominated their occupation as "Accountant".

Kym Charlton
Acting Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA