Australia increases student visa fee, including one for Vietnamese students

The Australian government has revised visa application fees at the start of the new fiscal year, with the subclass 500 student visa drawing the most attention.

According to Study Australia, the Australian government increased visa application charges across all visa categories, with the Student Visa Application Charge (VAC) rising to AU$2,500 from AU$2,000, effective July 1.

The increase follows a series of steep fee hikes in recent years, further raising the upfront cost of studying in Australia before international students even factor in tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and financial capacity requirements.

The fee is lower for eligible nationals of certain countries. Australia's Department of Home Affairs said reduced visa application charges are available to eligible citizens of Pacific island countries, Timor-Leste, and ASEAN member states who submit a valid application.

According to The PIE News, students coming from ASEAN members will pay lower prices, especially ELICOS, which is a group focusing more on English for international students, would only need to pay AU$2,050.

The increase is not limited to student visas. The application fee for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) has also risen sharply, with the base application charge now starting at AU$5,750.

The fee represents an increase of AU$1,150, just four months after the application charge was raised to AU$4,600 on March 1.

The changes come as Australia faces mounting pressure over immigration, housing affordability, and the cost of living while seeking to curb the inflow of international students.

However, international education groups argue that the rapid fee rises could make Australia less competitive than other study destinations.

A representative of the Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations described the higher Temporary Graduate visa fee as an 'exit tax,' saying it directly affects international graduates who have studied in Australia and are considering staying to contribute to the country's workforce.

The Subclass 500 student visa allows international students to undertake a wide range of courses in Australia, including higher education, vocational education and training (VET), pathway programs, English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), and postgraduate research.

Study Australia also notes that applicants must obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before lodging a visa application.

The visa also allows students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session.