Effective 1/7, the non-refundable fee applies even if the visa application is rejected, according to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. Accompanying family members require an additional fee ranging from 400 to 1,225 AUD (6.8-21 million VND).

This new fee for the Australian student visa (visa 500) is two to seven times higher than the UK's 524 GBP and the US's 185 USD.

"International education is vital to Australia, and the government is committed to managing it sustainably while ensuring fairness, quality, and integrity," an Australian Department of Home Affairs spokesperson told The Pie News, an international education news website.

Last year, Australia increased its visa fee from 710 to 1,600 AUD.

The University of Sydney campus. Photo: University of Sydney Fanpage

The University of Sydney campus. Photo: University of Sydney Fanpage

Australia is a top destination for international students, alongside the US and Canada. Nearly 1.1 million international students arrived last year, a 15% increase compared to 2019 (pre-Covid-19). Vietnamese students numbered over 37,600, placing them among the top 5 nationalities.

International students are a primary revenue source for universities but are considered a factor in rising net migration and housing costs. To address this, the Australian government has implemented several policies tightening student visa regulations since late 2023.

Besides the visa fee increase, post-graduation work rights have been reduced from four to six years to two to four years. English language requirements increased by 0.5 points to a 6.0-6.5 IELTS score. Transferring from tourist to student visas is now prohibited. Proof of funds requirements increased by 20% to 29,710 AUD. Students must also take the Genuine Student Test to ensure the visa's intended use. Renewals for extended stays will face greater scrutiny.

Huyen Trang