A new instrument has been made amending the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018, tightening when an international student may transfer from one registered provider to another.
The National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students Amendment (Overseas Student Transfers) Instrument 2026 was made on 30 September 2026 under the ESOS Act 2000 and commences the day after registration.
Minimum time with the current provider before transfer:
- Until 30 June 2027: 12 months of the principal course.
- From 1 July 2027: six months of the principal course.
- School sector: the first six months of the first registered school sector course.
The transfer may still proceed if the releasing provider or course has ceased to be registered, a sanction prevents the student continuing, the releasing provider agrees to the release (recorded in PRISMS), or a government sponsor gives written support.
Providers must also have a documented policy for assessing transfer requests.
