Australia Elevates India to Highest-Risk Category for Student Visas Amidst Stricter Scrutiny

Australia has moved India to its highest-risk category (Assessment Level 3) for student visas, effective January 8, 2026. This change imposes stricter documentation requirements, including enhanced financial and academic verification, and is expected to lengthen processing times. Officials cite "emerging integrity issues" and a need to manage risks while facilitating genuine students. Several other South Asian countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, were also moved to this highest-risk tier, while Pakistan remains there. The reclassification has raised concerns among students and education stakeholders regarding increased scrutiny and potential delays.