Student debt prevents emmigration?

jago25_98

Does my student debt count as a debt to prevent emmigrating to Australia? I know outstanding debts effects the point system but does the SLC debt count?

What about other counties? In general the SLC debt is a bit unclear as sometimes it's considered debt and sometimes it isn't.

Blacksheep1979

Well I don't think they show up on credit checks

tallerbird

Well, i am actually browsing this forum looking for some similar info but i may be able to help you. My sister emigrated to Australia just over a year ago and has recently received her permanent residence visa. Today i received a letter from the student loan company asking me to contact them regarding her whereabouts.
I assume that she left without telling them or paying it off, so i don't think it should prevent you from emigrating.

If anyone could give any info about what my sister could do about this now it would be a great help. I heard once that there is a loophole that means you don't have to pay it make if you have been outside the UK for a number of years.

anewman

It won't prevent you but you should keep them informed. While abroad and working, whatever amount you earn (even if it's pennies) you have to pay a set amount. The SLC also claims that they add penalty fines and penalty interest rates etc if you fail to give them information - so be careful on that side of things.