Australia: Former Special Category Visa Holders Granted Higher Education Loan Program Eligibility

New Zealand citizens who were former Special Category Visa (SCV) holders are now eligible for the Higher Education Loan Program. The new rule lets eligible students, who have transitioned to a permanent resident visa on the pathway to Australian citizenship, continue or return to their studies without the burden of upfront payment of tuition fees while they await their Australian citizenship. This new rule aligns with the new direct pathway to Australian citizenship, announced in April 2023, which allows New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for four years or more to apply directly for Australian citizenship.