Australia Visa Fee Hike: Indian Govt Engages with Officials

The Indian government has expressed concern about Australia's decision to raise the fees for international student visas, which will take effect on July 1, 2024. The visa fee will go up from AUD 710 (about ₹39,000) to AUD 1,600 (around ₹87,700). This was confirmed by Kirti Vardhan Singh, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, in a response to the Rajya Sabha. He mentioned that the fee hike could put extra financial pressure on Indian students who want to study in Australia and assured that the issue has been raised with Australian officials.

India is a major contributor to Australia’s international student population, with over 1,22,000 Indian students enrolled in Australian universities as of September 2023. The India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), which was implemented in December 2022, offers benefits like extended post-study work rights and recognition of professional qualifications, making it easier for Indian students to work in Australia. However, despite these agreements, recent data shows a sharp decline in student visas issued to Indian students.

Between October 2023 and August 2024, the number of student visas granted globally dropped by 38%, with Indian student visa approvals falling by 56%. This decline is due to a combination of higher visa fees, stricter English language requirements, higher financial proof requirements, and limited post-study work rights. Other changes, such as new rules for student intent and restrictions on applying for student visas while in Australia, have also contributed to this decline.

The drop in student visas has affected various education sectors in Australia. Vocational training saw the biggest decline, with a 57% drop in visa approvals, followed by a 50% decline in English language courses and a 25% decrease in higher education visas. A recent survey revealed that the financial burden and tougher visa rules are discouraging many students from choosing Australia as a study destination. These changes have raised concerns about the future of Australia’s education sector.