Australia has more than doubled its visa fees for international students, from A$710 to A$1,600, as of July 1. This move has caused international outcry.
Aiming to control skyrocketing migrant numbers and alleviate pressure on the housing market, the steep raise has come under heavy fire as a “outrageous impost.”
In an effort to improve the integrity of the global education system, visitors and holders of temporary graduate visas are not permitted to apply for student visas while in Australia under the new laws.
Clare O’Neil, the minister of home affairs, supported the modifications, claiming they will promote a more equitable and efficient immigration system.
A startling 60% increase in net immigration was reported in recent data, with 548,800 people receiving Australian visas in only the last year.
Due to the pricing change, Australia is currently far ahead of its international rivals. For example, comparable student visas in the US cost roughly $185, while those in Canada cost roughly C$150 ($110).
Critics blasted the decision as “robbing Ranjit to pay for Richard,” accusing overseas students of bearing an unfairly heavy financial burden to support domestic projects. Concerns about Australia’s appeal as a location for international students in the face of a more competitive global landscape are growing as the country deals with the impact.
