Along with India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan have also been re-rated under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) from Evidence Level 2 to Evidence Level 3, effective January 8 2026.
The Australian administration said, “This change will assist with the effective management of emerging integrity issues, while continuing to facilitate genuine students seeking a quality education in Australia.
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The Australian government wants all students to have a positive study experience during their stay in Australia and receive a high-quality education. It is important that Australia’s international education system and Student Visa Program has the right settings to provide international students with confidence they are investing in the best possible education.”
Indian students applying for visas will now face meticulous screenings. Officials may ask for extra documents, verify bank statements manually, request additional English language proof, and even contact institutions or referees. The processing time is expected to increase from three to eight weeks.
The move comes after reports of fake degrees in India sparked international concern. India alone contributes nearly 140,000 of Australia’s 650,000 international students. Experts say this re-rating ensures better filtering of visa applicants amid rising fraudulent financial and academic documents.
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Phil Honeywood, CEO of the International Education Association of Australia, explained, “By placing a number of these countries into the highest risk rating level then it automatically enhances any filtering of the student visa applicants to ensure bona fide study motivation.”
Indian students may now face longer waiting times and stricter checks, but genuine applicants can still study in Australia safely. The government aims to protect the integrity of its student visa program while maintaining a strong international education system.
