From 1 January 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will no longer accept Letters of Offer for onshore Student visa applications in Australia.
If you’re applying for a Student visa while in Australia:
- You must include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with your application.
- Applications without a CoE will be deemed invalid and cannot be processed.
- An invalid application also means you cannot receive a Bridging visa.
Key Details:
- This change applies to applications lodged on or after 1 January 2025.
- Applications lodged before 1 January 2025 with only a Letter of Offer will not be affected.
- The policy does not apply to Foreign Affairs, Defence, or secondary exchange students, who can continue to use alternative forms of evidence.
Why This Change?
This update ensures stronger alignment between onshore and offshore Student visa requirements. Requiring a CoE demonstrates a student’s commitment to their intended course of study, providing greater certainty for Australia’s international education sector.
Source: Department of Home Affairs – Student Visa Update
Conclusion:
This change reinforces the importance of securing a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before lodging your Student visa application. Prospective students are encouraged to consult their education providers early to ensure they meet the updated requirements.