Indian students in Australia are now under increased scrutiny as authorities crack down on violations of work-hour restrictions. Reports suggest that students exceeding the stipulated 48-hour fortnightly work limit are being subjected to inspections, with some even facing visa cancellations. This situation has raised concerns among the Indian student community and triggered debates about work regulations.
Why Are Indian Students Facing Visa Checks?
| Reason for Scrutiny | Impact on Students |
|---|---|
| Exceeding 48-hour fortnightly work limit | Risk of visa cancellation & deportation |
| Working under Australian Business Number (ABN) | Misinterpretation of part-time vs full-time work |
| Jobs in unregulated sectors like ride-sharing & delivery | Increased monitoring by authorities |
| Higher wages enticing students to work extra hours | Visa violations leading to legal consequences |
Local student associations report that nearly 40 business establishments employing students were inspected. Additionally, a viral letter revealed that a student enrolled in a graduate diploma program since December 2024 had his visa revoked for working 50-60 hours per week.
What Jobs Are Under Scrutiny?
Many Indian students in Australia work in various sectors, including retail, fuel stations, and grocery stores, which operate under the Tax File Number (TFN) system. However, confusion arises when students take up jobs as cab drivers or delivery personnel, which operate under the Australian Business Number (ABN) system.
Key Concern: Many students believed that driving for aggregators does not count as part-time work since they are self-employed. However, authorities are now treating such employment as exceeding work-hour limitations.
Reactions from Student Associations
Rajkumar Vadlakonda, General Secretary of the Indian Cultural Association of Victoria, stated that students unaware of visa regulations end up risking their status in pursuit of higher earnings.
“Many students earn AUD 1,500–2,000 per week, but they do not realize they are violating visa conditions,” he said.
Similarly, Adhi Reddy, founder of the Adelaide Telangana Association, emphasized the importance of compliance:
“We are counseling students, advising them that they will have better opportunities after completing their courses. Violating visa norms can jeopardize their future prospects.”
How Can Indian Students Avoid Visa Violations?
To ensure compliance and avoid deportation risks, Indian students in Australia should follow these guidelines:
✅ Stick to the 48-hour fortnightly work limit – Avoid exceeding permitted work hours. ✅ Clarify job categories – Verify whether jobs under ABN count as self-employment or part-time work. ✅ Seek legal advice – If unsure, consult student associations or legal experts. ✅ Use semester breaks wisely – Work without restrictions only during official breaks. ✅ Keep updated on visa regulations – Regularly check for updates on work limitations.
What Happens If a Student Violates Visa Rules?
| Violation | Potential Consequence |
| Working over 48 hours per fortnight | Visa cancellation & deportation |
| Providing false information | Legal action & future visa restrictions |
| Unauthorized work under ABN | Loss of work rights & immigration record impact |
Conclusion
Indian students in Australia must be vigilant about their visa conditions. With increasing inspections and visa cancellations, adhering to work-hour regulations is essential for maintaining legal status. Authorities are taking strict action, and students must prioritize compliance to secure their future in Australia.
For the latest updates on immigration policies and student visas, stay tuned to ImmigrationsNews.com.
