Australia today introduced a new student visa policy. (SBS pictures)
Australian Federal government has resumed processing of student visa applications submitted outside Australia with a view to increasing the number of students after reopening the country.
Australia's authorities today unveiled five new measures to retain foreign students, including the resumption of overseas student visas, amid concerns that some students may not return to Australia after the outbreak recedes.
In addition, students who are unable to complete their studies during the original visa period due to the new crown epidemic can apply for renewal free of charge. Applicants who need to provide English grades will be given more time.
At present, student visa holders of online courses outside Australia will be able to take these study hours into account to meet the application requirements for 485 post-study work visas (Post-study work visa).
Students who can not return to Australia due to the epidemic will be eligible to apply for a post-study visa outside Australia.
"These initiatives will support our fourth largest export industry —— the international education industry and help it recover ," said agent minister Taci (Alan Tudge). "
"They will not only support the education sector, but will also have a joint impact on local communities and businesses in residential services, tourism, catering services, retail, etc. "
Foreign students are estimated to contribute $40 billion a year to Australia's economic about 250,000 jobs.
Prior to the promulgation of the five New Deal for Student Visas today, the Federal government has relaxed work restrictions foreign students working in the medical, live a retired life and disability care industries during the epidemic.
But the vast majority of the 565,000 students still do not qualify for federal government subsidies. This has made it difficult for many international students.
Australia's prime minister, Scott Morrison Morrison, urged temporary visa holders in April to return to their country of nationality if they were unable to make a living during the outbreak.
Affected by the travel ban, Australia is expected to receive 85% less overseas migrants this fiscal year than fiscal year 2018-19.
Australian universities have warned they will lose as much as $16 billion in revenue over the next four years under travel restrictions.
