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Studying in Australia from Vietnam? A proposal could end the post-study work visa

Visa guide · 2026-10-06 · 3 min read

Some Vietnamese students go to Australia to study and hope to work there for a while after they finish. A new political plan could affect that hope. So let us look at it slowly. The plan was released by the federal Opposition on 6 October 2026. Please remember one thing first. It is only a proposal. It would apply only if the Liberal and National Coalition wins government and then changes the rules. Today's student and graduate visa rules are the same as before.

What the plan would do

The plan would end the temporary graduate visa. This is the visa that lets graduates stay and work for a short time after study. Under the plan, the number of these visas would fall from 271,200 to just 10,000 by 2031-32. There would be a four-year transitional phase first.

Graduates who want to stay would have to go home and apply for a different temporary visa. A few groups could still stay, such as some graduates in priority areas like health and education, and some in regional areas.

The plan would also lower the number of new international students to 240,000. The current planning level is 295,000. The Government says the number is already heading towards 250,000 this calendar year.

Why people are talking about it

The Opposition says that post-study work rights were sold as a path to permanent residence or citizenship. It says they should be part of an education only. It believes that ending the visa would help Australia focus on the skills it needs.

Universities do not agree. Their peak body warned of lasting damage to higher education and to the economy. It said Australia could become less attractive for talented students. The Government also criticised the plan. It said Australia would lose the chance to select the brightest skilled graduates, and many top students would choose other countries.

There is one more argument. An industry association said the plan might break a trade agreement with India. A side letter from April 2022 promises former students time to stay after study. It says up to 18 months for trade or diploma graduates, up to two years for bachelor graduates, up to three years for STEM bachelor and master's graduates, and up to four years for doctoral graduates. The Coalition says there would be no breach.

What you can do now

Do not panic. Nothing is in force. Plan under the rules that apply today, and watch official announcements.

• Choose a course because it builds real skills that you want.
• Keep certified English translations of your Vietnamese degrees and records ready.
• Ask whether your course or visa needs an English test such as IELTS or PTE.
• Learn how your trade or degree may be assessed again abroad.

Be careful with big promises about life after study. Deal only with licensed organisations and real education providers. Never pay an unlicensed broker, and be careful with anyone who asks for money upfront to secure a place or a visa.

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