Australia Now Has the Costliest Student Visa – How It Compares Globally
As of July 1, 2025, Australia has implemented a sharp hike in its student visa fee, making it the most expensive destination among the world’s major English-speaking countries for international education. The cost of applying for the Subclass 500 student visa has risen from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000 – an increase of 25%.
This fee hike is part of what the Australian government describes as a broader strategy to ensure the sustainable growth of its booming international education sector. According to Finance Minister Katy Gallagher and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, the increased visa costs are expected to bring in around AUD 760 million over four years.
This jump in fees is accompanied by stricter caps on student enrolment and new environmental sustainability measures – making the path to studying in Australia more challenging, and significantly more expensive, for overseas students.
Visa Cost Changes Across Major Study Destinations
While Australia’s fee increase is steep, most other popular countries for international students have either made modest adjustments or none at all:
- United Kingdom: As of April 9, 2025, the UK has raised its Tier 4 (Student Route) visa fee by about 7%, from £490 to £524. Depending on the location of study, students must also show proof of maintenance funds: £1,483/month in London and £1,136/month elsewhere. For a typical 9–12-month course, this comes to £11,360–£17,796 in living costs.
- United States: The US raised the application fee for F/M/J visas in June 2023 from $160 to $185. Additionally, international students must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $350. Most institutions require proof of funds covering at least one year’s tuition ($20,000–30,000) and living expenses ($10,000–12,000).
- Canada: In contrast, Canada has maintained its study permit fee at CAD 150, approximately ₹9,500. Students also need to show CAD 10,000 (or CAD 11,000 in Quebec) for living expenses. Canada’s relatively lower immigration costs continue to make it an attractive and budget-friendly destination.
- Germany: The student visa for Germany costs only €75, payable in Indian Rupees (around ₹7,500), based on the current consular exchange rate. Students are also required to demonstrate funds for living expenses, which typically total €11,208 per year, usually through a blocked account.
- France: France remains one of the most affordable destinations in terms of visa cost, typically charging only €50 or waiving fees altogether. However, proof of monthly funds of €615 is required, amounting to €7,380 per year (approximately ₹6.15 lakh).
Rising Costs, Rising Concerns
Australia’s increased visa cost adds to the already high cost of living and tuition for international students. Students are required to maintain AUD 21,041 in their bank account for living expenses, excluding tuition and travel. This means students planning to study in Australia will now need significantly higher upfront funds, possibly limiting access to those from wealthier backgrounds.
In comparison, countries like Germany, France, and Canada continue to maintain relatively low visa fees and offer competitive living costs, keeping them attractive to students seeking quality education abroad without breaking the bank.
Impact on Global Student Mobility
These financial changes could shift student preferences over time. The steep hike in Australia may deter students, especially those from developing nations like India, from choosing it as a destination. Meanwhile, more affordable countries could see increased applications.
Such trends could affect more than just numbers. A decline in international enrolments can impact university diversity, cultural exchange, and global talent pipelines. Moreover, a reduction in international student inflow may influence a country’s soft power – the ability to attract through culture, education, and values rather than force.
As international education becomes increasingly expensive, the accessibility gap widens. Policymakers and institutions must tread carefully to ensure that rising costs don’t come at the cost of inclusivity and global cooperation.
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