Australia Student Visa Now World’s Most Expensive at AUD 2,000

Australia has long been a top destination for international students, but starting 1 July 2025, it’s going to come with a significantly higher price tag. The application fee for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) will increase from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000, a sharp 25% jump that has sparked concern across student and education circles worldwide.

This makes the Australian student visa the most expensive in the world, overtaking the UK, USA, and Canada by a wide margin.

What Is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at an accredited institution in Australia. It’s valid for up to 5 years, depending on the length of the course, and permits part-time work during study periods. It also allows:

• Entry with family members (dependents)
• Access to Australia’s public health system (via OSHC)
• The option to apply for a post-study work visa after graduation

However, this visa has become a focal point in Australia’s migration reform agenda, especially as the government tries to reduce misuse of the system.

Why the Student Visa Fee Is Going Up

The visa hike isn’t just about numbers — it’s a strategic policy shift.

• Curbing “non-genuine” applications: Australia is trying to prevent misuse of student visas for migration loopholes.
• Budget revenue boost: The government aims to use higher visa fees to offset public service costs.
• Restoring system integrity: Officials argue the changes are needed to make the system more “sustainable” and “credible.”

This latest fee hike follows an even more shocking one in 2024, when the cost jumped from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600, more than doubling in a single year.

A 5-Year Snapshot: How Australia’s Student Visa Fees Have Exploded

Year	Visa Fee (AUD)	Year-on-Year Change
2019–2020	575 → 620	+7.8%
2020–2021	620 → 710	+14.5%
2021–2022	710	Stable
2022–2023	710 → 1,600	+125%
2023–2025	1,600 → 2,000	+25%

In total, that’s a 247% increase over five years, with the student visa targeted far more aggressively than other visa categories, which rose by just 3% in line with inflation (CPI).

Global Comparison: Australia Now Tops the Chart

Here’s how Australia compares to other popular study destinations:

Country	Visa Type	Cost (in local currency)	Approx. in USD
Australia	Subclass 500	AUD 2,000	USD 1,330
USA	F-1 Visa	USD 185	USD 185
Canada	Study Permit	CAD 150	USD 110
UK	Student Visa	GBP 490	USD 620

With this move, Australia becomes the most expensive country for a student visa, more than 7x the U.S. F-1 visa.

Who Is Affected by the New Visa Fee?

The new AUD 2,000 visa fee applies to:

• All new Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications submitted on or after 1 July 2025
• Students starting their studies in late 2025 or 2026
• Applicants from all nationalities, with no exceptions for lower-income countries

What You Can Do as a Prospective Student

Planning to study in Australia? Here’s how to prepare:

• Adjust your budget: Factor in the AUD 2,000 visa fee alongside tuition, living costs, and health insurance.
• Apply early: If eligible, submit your visa application before 1 July 2025 to avoid the new fee.
• Check scholarships: Some universities may offer visa fee reimbursements or financial aid.
• Consider other destinations: Compare study options in Canada, the UK, and Europe, especially if cost is a key factor.

Reactions from Students & Experts

The dramatic increase has been met with criticism from students, education agents, and even university officials.

• Critics argue it will limit access for students from low and middle-income countries, especially in South Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
• Supporters claim the move is needed to uphold the quality of Australia’s international education system, ensuring only serious students apply.

Final Thoughts

Australia still boasts world-class universities, a diverse international student community, and pathways to work visas and permanent residency. But for many prospective students, the rising costs are becoming a serious deterrent.

If you’re committed to studying in Australia, early planning and financial preparation are more important than ever.