Studying abroad has never been cheap, but in 2025, even the visa application itself is a major expense. Countries worldwide are raising fees or adding financial requirements that go far beyond paperwork.
Whether you’re planning to apply for a student visa in Australia, the UK, or Germany, you’ll want to factor in these upfront costs before booking that one-way ticket.
Student Visa Fees in 2025
This article breaks down student visa fees for the top ten study-abroad destinations, giving you a clear look at how much each one costs in 2025.
1. Australia
Let’s start with the most talked-about one: Australia has hiked its base student visa fee to AUD 2,000 (~ ₹112,800/ ~$1,340). That’s a sharp jump from the previous AUD 710.
- This applies to most international applicants.
- Students from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste pay less.
- Extra costs: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory and adds significantly to the total.
Australia remains a top study destination, but this price tag will make students think twice.
2. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom sticks with a flat-rate £524 (~₹60,730 / ~$670) student visa fee for all applicants, whether you’re applying from Asia, Africa, or North America.
- Additional cost: Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is around £470 per year, based on course duration.
- Processing can take 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the applicant’s location.
Despite the high cost, UK universities continue to see strong demand from international students.
3. Canada
Compared to other destinations, Canada offers good value with a CAD 150 study permit fee and straightforward application requirements.
- Standard permit or extension: CAD 150 (~₹48,880 / ~$110)
- If you lose status and need restoration: CAD 389.75
Canada’s relatively low application costs keep it attractive for international students, especially with post-graduation work options.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand charges NZD 850 (~₹43,740 / ~$515) for its Fee Paying Student Visa, valid for study periods up to four years.
- Allows part-time work (up to 20 hours/week) during term time.
- Full-time work is permitted during scheduled breaks.
- From August 18, 2025, all applications must go through the upgraded Immigration Online platform.
5. Ireland
Ireland keeps things simple with low visa fees, straightforward processing, and multiple-entry options for eligible students and nationalities.
- €60 (~₹5,030 / ~$65) for single-entry visas.
- €100 (~₹8,380 / ~$110) for multiple-entry visas.
- Some applicants (e.g., EU family members) are exempt.
Expect additional processing fees depending on the local visa centre or embassy.
6. United States
The United States continues with its longstanding $185 (~₹15,910) fee for F and M visas—no surprises, just consistency.
- This fee applies to academic and vocational students.
- J-visa exchange applicants may be exempt if their program is US government-sponsored.
- All fees are non-refundable.
Despite the rising competition from other countries, the US remains a major destination for higher education.
7. Sweden
Sweden charges SEK 1,500 (~₹13,430 / ~$140) for student residence permits, with half-price rates for minors and some scholarship holders.
- Minors under 18 pay SEK 750.
- Scholarship holders from the Swedish Institute or certain EU programs may be exempt.
- Students must show proof of admission and health insurance.
8. Germany
On paper, Germany’s €75 (~₹7,540 / ~$82) visa fee seems affordable. But the blocked account and documentation add real costs.
- A blocked account with €11,904 is mandatory to prove financial capacity.
- Monthly withdrawal limits are capped at €992 starting September 2024.
- Add to that: APS certification, health insurance, and detailed paperwork.
Germany is a great low-tuition option, but upfront visa-related costs are more than they seem.
9. France
France offers reduced visa fees for Études en France applicants, with digital submissions and long-stay permits included in the process.
- €50 (~₹5,030 / ~$55) for India and select EEF countries.
- €99 (~$110) for other countries.
- A visa acts as a residence permit if the course is over six months.
- Applications are mostly digital now, speeding up the process.
10. Singapore
Singapore’s visa process is fully digital, fast, and paperless, costing S$60 (~₹4,030 / ~$45) with optional add-ons for multiple entry.
- Student’s Pass issuance fee: SGD 60 (~₹4,030 / ~$45)
- Optional Multiple Journey Visa: SGD 30
- Applications go through Singpass or FileSG, following biometric enrolment.
Applicants receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which can be used as an entry visa.
Quick Comparison Table: 2025 Student Visa Fees
Country | Visa Fee (Local Currency) | Fee in INR (approx.) | Fee in USD (approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
Australia | AUD 2,000 | ₹1,12,860 | $1,330 |
UK | £524 | ₹60,730 | $670 |
Canada | CAD 150 | ₹48,880 | $110 |
New Zealand | NZD 850 | ₹43,740 | $515 |
Ireland | €60–€100 | ₹5,030–₹8,380 | $65–$110 |
USA | $185 | ₹15,910 | $185 |
Sweden | SEK 1,500 | ₹13,430 | $140 |
Germany | €75 | ₹7,540 | $82 |
France | €50–€99 | ₹5,030–₹9,950 | $55–$110 |
Singapore | SGD 60 | ₹4,030 | $45 |
Why Are Student Visa Fees Rising Worldwide?
- Demand: Increasing numbers of international applicants.
- Government Policy: Some countries aim to curb migration or fund student amenities.
- Post-pandemic Recovery: Governments are recouping losses from 2020-2022.
Visa fees are only part of the total expense. Budget for health insurance, financial deposits (like Germany’s blocked account), documentation costs, and sometimes language/proficiency tests. Always refer to official government sources for current requirements.
Final Thoughts: Budget Beyond Tuition
Visa fees are just one part of the puzzle. Health insurance, language tests, proof of funds, and long wait times also matter. Make sure you budget for:
- Application fees for multiple universities
- Language exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo
- Pre-departure medical tests or biometrics
- Travel insurance and initial accommodation
Planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute surprises.
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