In a significant policy shift, Australia has intensified visa requirements for students from India and several neighboring nations, reclassifying them under the highest-risk category within its immigration framework. Effective January 8, 2026, the Australian Department of Home Affairs confirmed the adjustment of Evidence Levels for India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan from Level 2 to Level 3—the most stringent integrity setting in the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF).
The recalibration responds to emerging integrity concerns, including heightened risks of fraud, visa refusal, and non-compliance. Under Evidence Level 3, Indian students pursuing Australian education must now submit extensive documentation, including manually verified bank statements, additional English language proficiency proofs, and detailed background records. Visa processing durations are anticipated to extend from three to eight weeks due to enhanced verification protocols, which may involve direct inquiries to educational institutions or referees.
The SSVF employs a weighted algorithm to determine Evidence Levels, incorporating metrics such as visa cancellation rates (25%), fraud-based refusals (40%), general refusal rates (10%), incidence of unlawful non-citizens (15%), and subsequent Protection Visa applications (10%). These indicators collectively assess the immigration risk profile of source countries and education providers, independent of academic quality.
While the Department of Home Affairs does not publicly maintain a current list of countries assigned to specific Evidence Levels, the reclassification was confirmed through official statements and can be independently verified using the government’s Document Checklist Tool. Prospective applicants are advised to consult the tool for tailored requirements based on their chosen institution and nationality.
This move aims to balance Australia’s commitment to hosting genuine international students with robust mechanisms to safeguard immigration integrity. The policy adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to address systemic vulnerabilities while maintaining the nation’s appeal as a premier education destination.