Considering pursuing a student visa in Australia? Big changes are coming to the Australian student visa process !On July 1st, the Australian government significantly increased the application fee for a student visa 500 from A$710 to a whopping A$1,600 (around $1,068 USD). This is just the latest move in a series of actions aimed at curbing record-breaking immigration levels in Australia.
Why the Changes?
The Australian government is concerned about the rapid rise in australian immigration, which has put a strain on housing and infrastructure. They’re looking to create a “fairer, smaller, and better” immigration system (according to Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil). Part of this plan involves tightening Australian student visa regulations.
What Else is Changing?
- Visitor visa (subclass 600) holders and temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) holders can no longer apply for a student visa onshore. This means you’ll need to apply from your home country before traveling to Australia.
- The government is cracking down on “visa hopping” by students. This refers to the practice of using a student visa 500 to stay in Australia for longer than intended.
- English language requirements have been strengthened. Make sure your English skills meet the new standards before applying for a Australian student visa.
- The financial requirements for student visas have also increased. You’ll now need to demonstrate you have at least A$29,710 (around $19,823 USD) in savings to qualify.
Impact on International Students
These changes will undoubtedly make obtaining a student visa Australia a more expensive and complex process. Universities Australia, an advocacy group, is concerned these policies will damage Australia’s reputation as a premier study destination. After all, student visa fees in Australia are now significantly higher than those in competitor countries like the US and Canada.
What This Means for You
If you’re dreaming of studying in Australia, it’s important to be aware of these new regulations. Factor in the increased costs and application complexities when making your decision. Carefully research the specific requirements for your chosen program and ensure you meet the new financial and English language benchmarks.
The Bottom Line
While Australia remains a fantastic place to study, the recent changes have made the process more challenging and expensive for international students. Be sure to do your research and plan accordingly if you’re still set on pursuing your studies Down Under!