Visa laws for international students will be made flexible : Australian HC

COLOMBO (News1st): Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Holly on Sunday said visa regulations for international students will be made flexible, owing the current situation surrounding the coronavirus. His statement came after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday said international first year students who cannot support themselves financially as required, can return to their countries. Students who fly to Australia for studies are required to provide a warranty stating that they can support themselves for the first year of their study. In a message to the parents of Sri Lankan students in Australia, the high commissioner said the government understands the impact of COVID - 19 on international students. "Accordingly, changes including increased flexibility of a number of regulations have been made to make it easier for international students to continue their studies," the message read. Holly said the Australian government will also be flexible with students on meeting their visa conditions such as not being able to attend class. Students have also been encouraged to rely on family support, part-time work where available and their own savings to help sustain themselves, the statement added. The high commissioner added that foreign students who have been in Australia for 13 months and more can access their Australian superannuation, if required.