Australia Moves India to Highest-Risk Category for Student Visa Applications

Australia has reclassified India, along with Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, to the highest-risk category (Assessment Level 3) for student visa applications effective January 8, 2026. This change, citing emerging integrity issues such as fraudulent documents, imposes stricter scrutiny and more extensive documentation requirements, including verified financial and academic proofs. While the government emphasizes facilitating genuine students, education providers and applicants express concerns over increased processing times and uncertainty amid frequent policy updates. India remains a major source of international students despite these changes.