Despite the Australian government's promise to cut down visa processing time, Indian students and people have been facing the same issue. In 2023, Australia's Home Affairs Department announced a significant improvement in the processing time for student visas, with the average processing time now reduced to just 16 days. This development came after several major study destinations faced extensive visa delays in 2022 due to a surge in applications as the world began to recover from the pandemic. While it was expected that after the Australian government's promises, the visa processing delays will be cut short, the issue has been raised again.
Manav Dudhiya reached out to True Scoop News and shared his ordeal he faced due to Australia Visa Processing time delays. "As our most important fundamental right, the right to education, we parents and students are deeply concerned about the detrimental impact these delays and denials are having on our education and on all of them who have diligently followed all procedures and requirements in pursuit of their academic goals in Australia," Manav in a mail wrote.
Manav further added, "The extended processing times not only result in the wastage of precious time but also impose undue financial burdens on students and their families. Many have either invested their lifetime savings or have taken loans to fulfill the amount of tuition fees, accommodation, and other preparatory expenses. This has only contributed in facing the uncertainty and setbacks due to visa processing delays beyond the control. Moreover, students are struck in between not knowing if to wait for their visa or look for any another second option."
Australian visa processing and rejection rates increased
As per a report of 2023, Australia witnessed a surge in visa rejection rates due to some educational institutions withdrawing admission offers amid government's new migration strategy. Approximately one in five international students faced visa application refusals in the last two quarters of 2023. Australian media reported that the rejection of numerous overseas students has led to a significant 20% reduction in student visa approvals, marking the most substantial shift in two decades. Sydney Herald stated that India, Nepal, and Pakistan, ranked as Australia's second, third, and ninth source markets, are particularly impacted by these policy changes.
On December 11, 2023, the Australian government announced its new migration strategy with the objective of enhancing the integrity and quality of Australia's international education programs. However, the implementation of the strategy resulted in increased visa rejection rates, prolonged processing times, and instances of revoked offers from Australian institutions, leaving international students to struggle with the resulting challenges.
For the unversed, under Australia's new migration settings, aspiring students are required to demonstrate a higher level of savings, improved English proficiency, and successfully pass a "Genuine Student Test." However, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of transparency in visa approval processes.
Outlining the impact, Manav further writes, "the emotional toll cannot be overlooked. The stress and anxiety experienced by students awaiting visa decisions, especially those waiting since October- November, coupled with the disappointment and disillusionment following denials, have far-reaching implications on their mental well-being and overall peace of mind. This, in turn, is affecting their academic performance and undermines the holistic educational experience they seek in Australia."
"It is crucial to recognize that these delays and denials not only impact individual students but also tarnish the reputation of Australia as a welcoming and student-friendly destination," wrote Manav adding, "The High Commission is requested to urge to expedite visa processing procedures and ensure transparent and fair assessments to prevent further harm to the aspirations and dreams of countless individuals...We implore the High Commission to prioritize the resolution of these issues and take proactive measures to streamline visa processing, minimize delays, and provide timely and clear communication to all applicants. Additionally, we request greater transparency regarding the reasons for visa denials, along with avenues for appeal and recourse."