Reading list: When did the new classification come into effect?
The new classification that moved India to the highest‑risk student visa category in Australia came into effect on 8 January 2026. As part of the updated Australia student visa risk category change, India was shifted to Evidence Level 3 student visa Australia, the highest level under the Simplified Student Visa Framework. This change represents a significant shift in how student visa applications from India are evaluated, primarily driven by concerns over non‑genuine applications and issues with compliance within the visa system. The move to Evidence Level 3 means that Indian applicants now face stricter requirements, including the need to provide more detailed evidence of their financial capacity, the authenticity of their educational intentions, and proof of compliance with the visa conditions. This new classification imposes higher levels of scrutiny and additional documentation checks on Indian students applying for visas to study in Australia. Although the change does not result in a ban on Indian students, it raises the bar for applicants, ensuring that only those with genuine intentions are granted a student visa. The shift aims to safeguard the integrity of the Australian student visa system while still allowing qualified and authentic students from India to pursue education in Australia.

https://eduprofound.com/australia-moves-india-to-highest-risk-category-for-student-visas/