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Australia Aerial View

Adjusting to Visa Rule Changes: What International Students Need to Know About Work Rights & Regional Incentives in 2025

  • Writer: Luanne Dequito
    Luanne Dequito
  • Oct 3
  • 3 min read
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From 2025, international students in Australia must comply with a 48-hour per fortnight work limit during study periods and ensure they hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at all times to maintain their visa status. 

 

What Are the New International Student Work Rights in 2025? 

The Australian government has reinstated stricter limits on student work hours to ensure that study remains the primary purpose of the visa. 

  • Work Limit During Study: International students are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight while enrolled in classes. This adjustment replaces the temporary relaxation of work rights during the pandemic.   

  • Full-Time Work During Holidays: Students can still work unlimited hours during official study breaks and holiday periods.   

  • Focus on Compliance: Employers and students must adhere to these limits to avoid visa breaches.   

These changes aim to balance students’ financial support with academic success. 

 

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) Requirements 

Maintaining a valid CoE requirement Australia student visa is essential in 2025. International students must: 

  • Hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for their course at all times.   

  • Update their visa status if they transfer institutions or courses.   

  • Ensure that gaps in enrolment are avoided to remain compliant.   

Failure to meet these requirements may put a student’s visa at risk. 

 

Regional Incentives for International Students 

Australia continues to encourage international students to live, study, and work in regional areas through a range of international student regional incentives Australia. These include: 

  • Additional Post-Study Work Rights: Graduates from regional institutions may be eligible for extended temporary graduate visas.   

  • Priority Processing: Some regional visas are processed faster, giving students a head start in migration pathways.   

  • Pathways to Permanent Residency: Regional study and work experience can strengthen applications for the Australia regional visa for students, such as the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491).   

These incentives create opportunities for students to not only gain education but also establish long-term settlement prospects. 


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How Students Can Stay Compliant and Maximize Benefits 

To succeed under the new rules, international students should: 

  1. Plan Work Hours Carefully: Keep track of the student visa 48 hours fortnight limit.   

  2. Maintain Enrolment Status: Ensure a valid CoE is held at all times.   

  3. Consider Regional Study Options: Explore universities and institutions in regional areas to gain additional post-study work rights.   

  4. Seek Migration Advice Early: Understanding visa pathways can help students position themselves for permanent residency after graduation.   

 

How Legacy Migration Can Help 

At Legacy Migration, we provide tailored support to international students navigating Australia’s evolving visa rules. Our services include: 

  • Guidance on student visa work hour limits Australia.   

  • Assistance with CoE compliance and enrolment changes.   

  • Strategic advice on regional study options and migration incentives.   

  • Long-term planning for students seeking Australia permanent residency.   

 


The international student visa changes Australia 2025 highlight the government’s commitment to prioritizing education while offering incentives for regional study. With a 48-hour per fortnight work limit, stricter CoE requirements, and attractive regional pathways, international students must adapt to stay compliant and maximize opportunities for future migration. 

 

If you are an international student looking to study, work, and build a future in Australia, Legacy Migration can help you navigate these changes with ease. 


Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your Australian journey. 


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The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia


Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

QEAC Number: S041


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