Amid recent reports suggesting that Australia has imposed visa restrictions on students from certain Indian states, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi has officially refuted these claims.
In a statement released on April 23, 2025, the Commission clarified that there is no ban or restriction on student visa applications from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan, or Jammu and Kashmir.
“The assertion that Indian university student applications from specific Indian states are being banned or restricted is incorrect,” stated the Australian High Commission. They emphasized that over 125,000 Indian students are currently studying in Australia, making India the second-largest source of international students in the country.
Visa applications from Indian students continue to be processed in line with global standards, underscoring Australia’s commitment to educational ties with India.
The clarification comes in response to media reports alleging that some Australian universities had suspended applications from students hailing from specific Indian states due to concerns over visa fraud and misuse.
While certain institutions have implemented stricter screening measures, the Australian government maintains that there is no blanket ban based on applicants’ states of origin.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also addressed the issue, acknowledging that visa decisions are sovereign matters. “Visa matters are sovereign matters. Whether Australia wants to issue a visa to X or Y, it’s their prerogative,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing on April 22, 2025.
The Australian government’s reaffirmation of its open stance towards Indian students aims to alleviate concerns among prospective applicants. Students from all Indian states are encouraged to pursue their educational aspirations in Australia, with the assurance that applications will be assessed fairly and without regional bias.
For more information, you can refer to the official statement from the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.
