Reinstatement of Work Hour Cap for International Student Visa Holders in Australia

The government has issued a statement regarding the reinstatement of the work hour cap for holders of student visas, effective from 1 July 2023. Under the new regulations, the cap will be increased to 48 hours per fortnight. The primary objective of this revised policy is to enable international students to support themselves during their studies while ensuring that their focus remains on academic pursuits as mandated by their visa.

The relaxation of the work-hour cap during the pandemic was a temporary measure aimed at helping students supplement their income and address the labour shortages in certain sectors. However, the primary aim of a student visa is to facilitate academic progress, and the work hour cap is designed to strike a balance between students' need to support themselves and gain work experience in Australia while keeping the emphasis on education.

Notably, the cap will apply to all international students, irrespective of the commencement date of their studies.

To determine your eligibility, it is recommended to consult with one of our Registered Migration Agents.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please contact SCA Connect.