Australia has recently decided not to allow students from overseas to bring their families under the student visa scheme. This decision specifically impacts Japanese students who wish to study in Australia, as it nullifies the previously permissible practice of their children or spouses accompanying them on these visas. The decision, made with immediate effect, primarily aims to manage the migration influx and optimize the resources for native citizens.

Many Japanese students often migrate to Australia to gain exceptional international exposure in education and bring their families along for the enriched cultural experience. This decision will significantly affect these students, causing disappointment and outrage among prospective student applicants and their families. In a society as family-oriented as Japan, where the concept of sticking together is deeply embedded in its culture and traditions, this new rule is not being particularly well received.

In the US and EU, certain countries and situations allow for the family to accompany the student on their visa. For example, in the US, student visas can include spouses and children as dependants. Similarly, in the EU, rules vary, but many countries allow for family to join on a student visa. This Australian policy change may result in students opting for US or EU over Australia for their studies.