Business
Australia Raises International Student Visa Fees by 225% to Manage Migration
Australia has raised student visa application fees from $710 to $1,600, effective July 1, 2024. This 225% increase makes Australia the most expensive country for student visa applications, surpassing costs in the United States (approximately US$185) and Canada (C$150 or US$110).
Government Strategy
This fee hike is part of Australia’s strategy to manage high migration levels that have put pressure on the housing market. Despite international education contributing $36.4 billion to the economy in 2022-2023, the government is implementing measures to balance the influx of international students with the country’s capacity to accommodate them.
Key Changes
- Visa Fee Increase:
- Student visa fee: $1,600
- Additional charges for accompanying family members: $1,445 for each person aged 18 and over, and $390 for those under 18.
- Restrictions on Onshore Applications:
- Visitor visa holders and students on temporary graduate visas are now prohibited from applying for student visas while in Australia.
- Increased Funding Requirements:
- International students must now demonstrate funds of at least $29,710, up from $24,505. This is about $5,000 higher than what is required for a Canadian study permit application and aligns with 75% of Australia’s national minimum wage.
- Tightening Visa Regulations:
- Measures have been introduced to close loopholes that allowed international students to overstay their visas. This move addresses the significant rise in students on second or subsequent student visas, which exceeded 150,000 in the 2022-2023 period.
Government’s Perspective
Clare O’Neil, the Australian Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, stated that these changes are intended to restore integrity to the international education system and create a more manageable migration framework. The new measures aim to ensure that the benefits of international education are balanced with the country’s capacity to handle high immigration levels.
Impact and Monitoring
The impact of these changes on the international student market and Australia’s economy will be closely monitored. The government’s actions are designed to sustain the benefits of international education while maintaining a fair and sustainable migration system.