Australia Student Visa Delays 2025: Why the System Is Reaching Breaking Point
The Australia Student Visa system is under intense pressure in 2025, with thousands of applicants facing long delays, uncertainty, and stalled education plans. Nearly 50,000 Australia Student Visa appeals are currently stuck at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), and the introduction of Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115) has further slowed processing for many students. As a result, international students and education providers are experiencing one of the most challenging periods in the visa system’s history. Why the Australia Student Visa System Is Delayed 1. Higher Refusal Rates The Department of Home Affairs has tightened screening for the Australia Student Visa , increasing refusal rates. More refusals lead to more appeals, feeding the growing ART backlog. 2. Rising Appeal Numbers Over 46,000 Australia Student Visa cases are pending review. Many students from India, Nepal, China, Pakistan, and the Philippines are waiting months—or even years—for a decision. 3. ART Staffin...