Australia has significantly increased visa fees for international students, rising from A$710 to A$1,600 ($1,068).
This change aims to “restore integrity to the country’s international education system” and manage unprecedented migration levels, which have put pressure on the housing market, according to Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil.
The government has also restricted onshore student visa applications for visitor and temporary graduate visa holders.
Recent Immigration Data
Recent data showed a 60% surge in net immigration, highlighting the need for regulatory adjustments. “This is about making sure we have a sustainable and manageable migration program,” O’Neil said.
The increased visa costs position Australia higher than the US and Canada, where student visa fees are approximately $185 and C$150 ($110), respectively.
The government is also closing loopholes that allowed foreign students to extend their stays indefinitely, following a notable rise in students obtaining subsequent student visas.
These changes build upon previous measures, including stricter English language requirements and higher financial thresholds for visa applicants, rising to A$29,710 ($19,823) from A$24,505 in May.
Universities Australia CEO Luke Sheehy expressed concerns over the cumulative impact on the education sector and economy, warning that “sustained pressure on international student numbers could jeopardize Australia’s economic strength.”
The adjustments reflect Australia’s ongoing efforts to recalibrate its immigration policies following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in 2022, which led to a surge in migration levels.
International education is one of Australia’s largest export industries, contributing A$36.4 billion to the economy in the 2022-2023 financial year.