Australia to Require Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Onshore Student Visa Applications Starting January 2025

Starting on 1 January 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will implement a significant change in the Student visa application process.

Applicants applying for a Student visa onshore will no longer be able to use a Letter of Offer as part of their application. Instead, they will be required to provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application.

Key points to note:

• Impact on applications: The change applies only to visa applications lodged on or after 1 January 2025. Applications submitted before this date using only a Letter of Offer will not be affected.
• Invalid applications: Failing to submit a CoE with an onshore Student visa application will result in an invalid application. Visa decision-makers will be unable to assess invalid applications, and applicants will not be eligible for a Bridging visa in this case.
• Aligning onshore and offshore requirements: This change will harmonize the evidence required for both onshore and offshore Student visa applications.
• Commitment to study: Providing a CoE at the time of application will demonstrate a stronger commitment to studying at the institution, enhancing the credibility and stability of Australia’s international education sector.