As authorities ramp up inspections, students are advised to stay informed and comply with visa regulations to prevent disruptions to their academic and professional aspirations
Indian students in Australia are now facing heightened scrutiny from authorities, similar to their counterparts in the United States. Reports indicate that students exceeding the permitted 48-hour work limit per fortnight have come under the radar, with some even facing visa cancellations.
Heightened Inspections and Visa Concerns
According to student associations, inspections have intensified in Melbourne and surrounding areas. Authorities recently inspected around 40 businesses employing students, and a visa cancellation letter circulating on social media has raised widespread concerns. The letter allegedly confirmed that a student, enrolled in a Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) program since December 2024, had his visa revoked and was subsequently deported for exceeding the work-hour limit.
Rajkumar Vadlakonda, General Secretary of the Indian Cultural Association of Victoria, confirmed the incident and stated, “Many students take up jobs as cab drivers or delivery personnel, earning between AUD 1,500 and AUD 2,000 weekly without realizing they are jeopardizing their visa status. In this case, the student was caught after his mobile phone was checked, revealing that he had been working for 50 to 60 hours per week.”
Confusion Over Employment Categories
Many students remain uncertain about how different job categories are classified under Australian work regulations. A student from Warangal, pursuing a master’s degree in mining engineering in Melbourne, explained, “Jobs at grocery stores and fuel stations require a Tax File Number (TFN), whereas delivery and cab-driving jobs operate under an Australian Business Number (ABN). Many students believe that driving for a ride-hailing service does not count as part-time employment since they are self-employed. However, recent developments suggest otherwise.”
Precautionary Measures by Student Associations
Following the recent visa cancellation case, several students have temporarily stopped working for ride-hailing services to avoid potential visa complications. During vacations, students are permitted to work unlimited hours, but stricter enforcement during academic sessions has led to increased caution.
Student associations have urged Indian students to strictly adhere to visa guidelines. Adhi Reddy, founder of the Adelaide Telangana Association and former president of the Indian Association of South Australia, emphasized, “Students must understand that they will have ample opportunities to earn after completing their courses. With temporary residency visas available for up to four years, they can secure stable employment post-graduation. We are advising students to adhere to the 20-hour work limit to avoid legal repercussions.”
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