Changing your course or education provider while holding a Student visa can affect your enrolment, visa conditions and future applications. Plan the change before you transfer.
From 2 October 2026 to 30 June 2027, the transfer restriction for non-school students is temporarily 12 months of the principal course. School students retain the six-month restriction for their first registered school course. During the restricted period, a release or another Standard 7 exception is required. Ask both providers to assess your case before cancelling enrolment. Department of Education changes.
Student visas include conditions relating to study. Some changes may also be affected by conditions such as 8202, 8203 or 8204 depending on the student’s circumstances. Check the actual conditions attached to your visa before making a change.
Obtain the correct CoE and ensure any required release is recorded in PRISMS. A provider release does not determine visa eligibility. Changing providers can prevent use of the same-provider course-completion exemption for a later onshore visa application.
Moving to a course at a lower AQF level can have additional visa implications and should be assessed before the transfer. Consider your current visa, previous study history and whether a new Student visa application will be necessary.
If further study requires a new visa, check the October 2026 onshore restrictions first. Course progression exemptions have specific completion and AQF requirements. A course offer alone does not establish eligibility to apply in Australia.
Previous study in Australia, reasons for course/provider changes, study gaps and course progress can be relevant to a later Student visa application. Keep clear evidence explaining genuine academic or career reasons for significant changes.
If your education provider closes or cannot deliver your course because of a provider default, different arrangements may apply. Contact the Department and your provider and obtain the appropriate new CoE where required.
Check VEVO, the restriction period, release requirements, CRICOS registration, CoE, OSHC and eligibility for any new visa before transferring.
Future change: a Student visa Transfer stream is planned for mid-2027. It is not the current application pathway; details are still being developed. Check official updates before acting.
Reviewed 1 November 2026. October 2026 application and family rules. Current transfer rules. General information only; obtain advice from a registered migration agent or Australian legal practitioner for your circumstances.
Information note: Immigration requirements can change. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website and your individual visa conditions before acting.
