Australia doubles student visa fees to curb migration, Indians likely to be hit
The Australian government has significantly increased the fees for international students, more than doubling the cost from AUD 710 ($473) to AUD 1,600 ($1,068). This latest move by the Anthony Albanese government, effective from July 1, aims to curb migration that is at an all-time high and has put pressure on the housing market.
The move is likely to hit Indian students, who form the second-biggest cohort of international students in Australia.
Furthermore, temporary visa holders, such as those on Temporary Graduate, Visitor, and Maritime Crew visas, will no longer be eligible to apply for a student visa while they are in Australia. This change will impact thousands of Indian students currently residing in the country.
“The changes coming into force today will help restore integrity to our international education system, and create a migration system which is fairer, smaller and better able to deliver for Australia,” said Clare O’Neil, Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security of Australia.
The Australian government’s crackdown aims to ensure that only genuine students are granted visas, thereby supporting the country’s economic growth.
