Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF): All You Need to Know
Why the Change?
- Simplification of student visa framework.
- Reduction of red tape.
- Self-regulated education industry.
- A targeted approach to immigration authenticity.
What is Changing?
The changes will now simplify the process as applicants only have to opt for 2 visa streams: a Subclass 500 or a Subclass 590 Student Guardian Visa.
Combing Country and Immigration Risk Framework
Mandatory Online Lodgement
Students/agents can obtain details about documentation and evidence that will need to be included with their student visa application by accessing an online tool which will be fully functional from 1 July 2016. This tool will be accessible at any stage before or after applying.
ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students)
Under the SSVF, there is no limitation on the maximum duration of the ELICOS study that may be undertaken. Genuine students can now undertake as much ELICOS study as either a standalone course or before their principal course, as required.
Onshore Applications
Irrespective of their country’s immigration risk (or assessment level), an applicant can be onshore at the time of Visa lodgement. For example, if you are here on a visitor visa (subclass 600), you can apply to study in a school and subsequently also lodge a student visa application onshore. An exception to this rule is sponsored visitor visa.
Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
Offshore students (Out of Australia): Will need to have an ECoE before lodging a student visa application.
Onshore Students (in Australia): Can apply for a student visa with a Letter of Offer at the time of lodgement and submit the ECoE later. However, an ECoE must be provided before the visa decision is made. This is similar to how health insurance (and other less urgent documents) can be provided at a later stage, after applying for the visa.
Course Transfer
Under the SSVF regulation, students must maintain their level of study. Changing the course to a lower level is not allowed, however, changing it to a higher level is allowed. For example, a student can not change his/her degree from Bachelor's to a diploma, but he/she can change from Diploma to a Bachelor’s Degree. Students who wish to change to a lower-level course must apply for (and be granted) a new student visa before they change their course.
Family Unit Members
All family unit members must be declared on the initial student visa application, even if they are not accompanying the student, or do not intend to do so even at a later stage. Members who are not declared won’t be eligible for the grant of a visa at a later stage. An exception applies to those who became family members after the primary applicant (student) was granted a visa.
Processing Times
The department aims to finalize 75% of complete student visa applications within 1 month of lodgement.
Key Requirements
- Genuine Temporary Entrant
- ECoE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment)
- Welfare arrangements (if applicable)
- Overseas Student Health Insurance
- Financial Proof
- Proof of English proficiency
Streamlined Evidentiary Requirements
Only the documents mentioned above are required. Some requirements like financial proof etc can be met by simply putting in a “declaration” instead of documents to prove your claim. Simply put, you just need to submit a declaration.
Regular Evidentiary Requirements
Additional documents like birth certificates, national id cards, payslips, bank statements etc. can be asked for. These documents are required to back the claims like you meet the financial requirement etc. and need to be proved by supplying certified documents. Simply put, you will need to show proof of funds/other requirements.
Disclaimer: Kindly note that the information provided here does not constitute legal advice. This must solely be regarded as content that provides general immigration information and is not a substitute for professional legal advice that occurs between an immigration lawyer and a client.
Path Migration strongly recommends readers contact certified immigration lawyers for a holistic overview of the Australian immigration system and a detailed analysis of each case.
