Australia moves 4 South Asian countries to ‘highest risk’ category for student visas
Summary
Australia has moved India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan to the highest risk category for student visas due to concerns over fraudulent documentation, impacting visa processing and requirements for students from these countries.
Key Points
- Australia has reclassified India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan to the highest risk category for student visa applicants due to emerging integrity risks.
- The change affects documentary requirements and may slow processing times, increasing costs for prospective students from these countries.
- The move follows reports of fake degree busts and a rise in suspected fraudulent financial and academic documents from South Asia.
- International education stakeholders express concerns over the sudden changes, emphasizing the need for clarity and stability in visa policy amid increased scrutiny.
