Australia Hikes Student Visa Fee to AUD 2,000, Becomes Costliest Study Destination
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Australia has raised its student visa application fee for Subclass 500 from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000, effective 1 July 2025, making it the most expensive among major English-speaking study destinations. The hike, announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, is expected to generate AUD 760 million over four years.
According to the Australian government, the increase is part of a broader strategy to manage the booming international education sector more sustainably. Along with stricter enrolment caps and financial proof requirements, the upfront cost of studying in Australia has significantly increased.
To qualify for a student visa in Australia, international applicants must now demonstrate AUD 21,041 in living expenses, in addition to tuition and travel costs. The change reflects the government’s push to balance growth in education exports with regulatory oversight.
The move puts Australia ahead of the United Kingdom and the United States in terms of visa application costs. As of April 2025, the UK increased its student visa fee to £524, up from £490, while the US charges US$185 for student visa applications, plus a SEVIS fee of US$350.
In contrast, countries like Canada, Germany, and France have made no significant visa fee changes since September 2024. Canada’s student permit remains at C$150, Germany charges just €75, and France often waives visa fees altogether.
As visa and living costs continue to rise in destinations like Australia, the UK, and the US, affordability is becoming a growing concern for international students—particularly those from India. The shift could affect student mobility, with budget-friendlier nations like Canada and Germany becoming more attractive.
With Australia now topping the list for student visa fees, the global competition for international students may see a shift, as students weigh costs against the quality and accessibility of education.
Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS
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