Australia’s Student Visa 2025: Higher Funds & Better Work Rights

Heading to Australia to study? Bold changes are redefining student visas: you’ll need stronger funding evidence, but you can now work more hours.

1. Stronger Financial Capacity Requirements 

Australia’s government has raised the bar for proof-of-funds required in student visa applications. The benchmark now matches a substantial proportion of the national minimum wage, aimed at ensuring international students can meet living costs without undue financial stress . 

• Why this matters: 

• Students who can demonstrate solid finances are less likely to face hardship. 

• You’ll be better prepared to focus on your studies, not survival. 

• Schools and agents are less likely to encourage unaffordable study plans. 

2. Expanded Work Rights During Studies 

Recent updates also enhance work opportunities for international students: 

• Undergraduates (Bachelor’s level): Now permitted to work more hours during academic terms—a boost from previous limits . 

• Postgraduate Research Students: Masters by Research and PhD students can now work unlimited hours throughout their degree . 

Why this is good news: 

• It helps students balance studies with real-world experience. 

• It allows more flexibility in managing living expenses. 

• Greater freedom to take up paid work or internships. 

What are the new changes to Australia’s student visa?  Australia has updated its student visa requirements by increasing the financial proof needed to show students can support themselves. In addition, international students now have expanded work rights, with bachelor’s students allowed more work hours during term and postgraduate research students permitted to work full-time. 

Facing higher costs and new visa rules? Legacy Migration is here for you: 

• Guidance on Financial Proof: We help you collect the right financial documents and prepare accurate evidence to meet new requirements. 

• Study–Work Balance Advice: We explain the new work conditions and help plan a visa-compliant work-study schedule. 

• Application Support: Your visa documentation, including financial and work plans, will be carefully reviewed for compliance. 

• Scam & Compliance Safeguards: We alert you to common pitfalls—like overstaying or illegal work—that could jeopardize your status. 

• Work Rights Strategy: For postgrad students, we assist in understanding and maximizing the new open work allowance. 

  
  

Australia has tightened funding proof for student visas and expanded work rights—undergraduates can now work more and postgrad researchers can work without limits. These updates ensure you’re well-supported financially and better prepared to work while studying. 

 Getting ready to study in Australia? Book a free consultation with Legacy Migration today to make sure your visa application—including funds and work rights—is strong, compliant, and future-ready! 

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