Australia Increases International Student Visa Fees to Prevent Migration
Effective July 1, 2024, Australia has implemented a significant increase in international student visa fees. This new measure aims to manage the current surge in migration and alleviate pressure on the housing market.
Visa Fee Increase
Doubling of Fees
Starting from July 1, 2024, the application fee for an Australian student visa has increased from A$710 to A$1,600. This represents a substantial 225% rise, making Australia the most expensive country for student visa applications, surpassing the USA and Canada.
Impact on Applicants
The fee hike is expected to significantly affect Indian students, who form Australia’s second-largest cohort of international students. Additionally, visitor visa holders and students with temporary graduate visas are now banned from applying onshore for a student visa.
Additional Costs for Accompanying Applicants
Charges for Family Members
In addition to the increased fee for lead applicants, the Australian government will now charge A$1,445 for each accompanying applicant aged 18 and over. Accompanying family members under 18 will be charged A$390.
Increased Financial Requirements
As of May 10, 2024, international students must show funds of at least A$29,710, a 21% increase from the previous amount of A$24,505. This new requirement is approximately A$5,000 higher than what is needed for a Canadian study permit.
Government Rationale and Response
Ensuring System Integrity
The Australian government claims that these changes will help restore integrity to the international education system and create a fairer, more manageable migration system. The rise in fees and tightened regulations are part of broader efforts to close loopholes that allowed international students to extend their stays repeatedly.
Economic and Educational Impact
International education is a major export industry for Australia, worth A$36.4 billion in the 2022-2023 financial year. However, critics argue that the increased fees and stringent regulations may deter international students, impacting both the economy and the education sector.
FAQ
The increase aims to manage high migration levels and ease the housing market strain.
The student visa fee has increased from A$710 to A$1,600.
Yes, A$1,445 for each accompanying applicant aged 18 and over, and A$390 for those under 18.
International students must now show funds of at least A$29,710.
Visitor visa holders and students with temporary graduate visas are now banned from applying onshore for a student visa.
