Australia Study Visa Fees Increased to AUD 2,000 Starting July 1, 2025
Australia Hikes Student Visa Fee to AUD 2,000 from July 2025, Becoming World's Most Expensive Study Destination
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Australia has just become the most expensive country in the world for international student visa fees. Effective July 1, 2025, the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application cost has increased to AUD 2,000, up from AUD 1,600 — a sharp 25% rise that has drawn global attention.
Why Has Australia Increased Its Student Visa Fee?
The Australian government says the hike is part of its strategy to:
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Filter out non-genuine student applications
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Increase funding for immigration and education infrastructure
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Protect the integrity of the international education sector
This move follows a staggering 125% fee hike in 2024, when the cost jumped from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 — making this a 247% total increase over five years.
While some support the move, critics argue it threatens affordability for students from developing countries, potentially damaging Australia’s appeal in the competitive global education market.
Australia’s Student Visa Fee History
| Year | Visa Fee (AUD) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2019–2020 | 575 → 620 | +7.8% |
| 2020–2021 | 620 → ~710 | +14.5% (est.) |
| 2021–2022 | ~710 | Stable |
| 2022–2023 | ~710 → 1,600 | +125% |
| 2023–2025 | 1,600 → 2,000 | +25% |
Global Comparison of Student Visa Fees
| Country | Visa Type | Equivalent Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Subclass 500 | ~$1,330 |
| USA | F-1 Visa | $185 |
| Canada | Study Permit | ~$110 |
| UK | Student Visa | ~$620 |
Australia now leads globally in visa application costs for students, far exceeding traditional study destinations like the U.S., U.K., and Canada.
Who Is Affected?
This new fee applies to all international students applying for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) from July 1, 2025, onward, including:
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University and TAFE students
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Vocational, language, and postgraduate applicants
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Dependents or partners included in the visa
What You Should Do
If you’re considering studying in Australia in late 2025 or 2026:
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Recalculate your budget to include the increased fee
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Apply early if you’re able to lodge before July 1
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Check for scholarships or bursaries that may offset visa expenses
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Use official visa advisers to ensure smooth application submission
Trusted Resources for More Information
Conclusion
With the visa fee now sitting at AUD 2,000, international students must plan smarter, apply earlier, and assess their long-term return on investment when choosing Australia as a study destination. Despite the rising cost, Australia continues to offer high-quality education, global career pathways, and a vibrant multicultural experience — now at a premium price.
