Effective from July 1, 2024, international students applying for visas in Australia will face a significant fee increase, with costs rising from €710 to €1,600. This move aims to reduce migration, which has reached record levels, and alleviate pressure on the housing market. Indian students, the second-largest group of international students in Australia, are expected to be particularly affected.
International education contributes significantly to Australia's economy, generating A$36.4 billion in the 2022-2023 financial year. With this fee increase, Australia now surpasses the United States and Canada in student visa costs, which are approximately US$185 and C$150 (US$110), respectively. However, holders of visitor visas and temporary graduate visas are prohibited from applying for student visas while in Australia.
Australian Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Clare O'Neil, stated that the changes will restore integrity to the international education system and create a fairer, smaller, and more effective migration system.
In addition to the higher fees for lead applicants, the Australian government will now charge $1,445 for each accompanying applicant aged 18 and over, and $390 for those under 18. This increase comes alongside higher minimum funding requirements for international students applying for study visas. As of May 10, 2024, applicants must show funds of at least US$29,710 (up from US$24,505), aligning with 75 percent of the national minimum wage.
The Australian government is also closing visa regulation loopholes that allowed international students to repeatedly overstay. This decision follows a 30 percent increase in students on second or subsequent student visas, totaling over 150,000 in 2022-2023. Net immigration rose by 60 percent to a record 548,800 people in the year ending September 30, 2023.