Study Abroad: Australia student visa fees goes up by 225%

NEW DELHI: The Australian government has announced a substantial increase in student visa fees, effective from July 1, 2024. The application fee will rise to AUS$1,600, a 225% increase from the previous fee of AUS$710.

An official government statement said, "This increase reflects the increasing value of education in Australia and the government’s commitment to restoring integrity in the international education sector."

The statement further highlights that the increased fees will support initiatives in education and migration, including the "ongoing implementation of the migration strategy."

Minister for home affairs and cyber security, Clare O’Neil said: "The changes coming into force today will help restore integrity to our international education system, and create a migration system which is fairer, smaller, and better able to deliver for Australia."

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“International education is an incredibly important national asset and we need to ensure its integrity and quality,” minister for education, Jason Clare said, adding, “These changes will strengthen integrity in the international education system and help to fund important reforms recommended by the Universities Accord, including making HECS fairer, paid prac and expanding FEE-Free Uni Ready courses.”

Australia Student Visa: Other changes

The duration of the temporary graduate visa has been shortened and the age-related eligibility criteria have been reduced. Australia has already stopped “visa hopping” or, the practice of temporary visa holders extending their stay repeatedly.

In addition to the higher fee for main applicants, the Australian government will now charge AUS $1,445 for each accompanying applicant aged 18 and over, while accompanying family members under 18 years of age will be charged AUS$390.

This move follows less than two months after the government increased the minimum funds requirements for international students.