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The student visa application charge (VAC) increase in Australia serves a broader government strategy to support the international education sector enhancing the quality and fairness of higher education, including more accessible FEE-Free Uni-ready courses and improved Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs.
The base application charge component of the first instalment of the VAC for the Australia Student (subclass 500) visa and the Student Guardian (subclass 590) visa has experienced an increase from $710 to $1,600 with additional applicants over 18 years of age now paying $1,190. The additional applicant charge component for any other applicant who is less than 18 has increased from $175 to $390.
This increase reflects a one-off percentage increase, rather than indexation in line with the predicted Consumer Price Index (a measure of the spending power of individuals in Australia), as proscribed in the Australia 2024-25 Budget. The changes are part of a reorganisation of Australia’s migration system aimed at better aligning with labour market needs and ensuring fair compensation for skilled workers. Skilled migrants must now meet a higher income threshold and there are stricter criteria for Temporary Graduate visas.
The Government of Australia expects the increased revenue to allow the country to streamline its visa processes and reinforce the integrity of its migration system.
These VAC increases have not affected the Pacific Engagement (subclass 192) visa and secondary applicants for the Temporary Work (International Relations) (subclass 403) visa in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) stream.
As with any financial commitment, charges associated with visa applications often represent a substantial consideration for migrants to Australia. With the cost of living increasing across the globe and these increased visa application charges, it has never been more important to make sure your student visa application is completed to the highest standard.
These charges are non-refundable and visa application rejections are also on the rise in Australia. Easy Migrate is one of the most experienced visa agencies in the country and will give your application the best chance of being approved, contact us now to receive the best advice possible and secure you and your family’s future in Australia.