In a significant move to curb the influx of foreigners, the Australian government has announced a substantial increase in visa fees for international students, a change that will notably affect students from Pakistan and other countries.
Visa Fee Hike Details
As of July 1, 2024, the fee for an international student visa will rise from A$710 to A$1,600. This more than doubling of the cost is part of Australia’s broader strategy to manage record-high migration levels. The government aims to balance the benefits of international education with the need to ensure a sustainable migration system.
Impact on Pakistani Students
Pakistani students, who constitute a considerable portion of international students in Australia, will feel the brunt of this increase. With many families already stretching their finances to afford overseas education, this hike could deter potential applicants or push them to consider more affordable destinations like the USA or Canada, where visa fees remain significantly lower.
Additional Restrictions
In addition to the fee increase, the Australian government has imposed further restrictions. Visitor visa holders and students with temporary graduate visas can no longer apply for student visas while onshore. This policy change aims to ensure that the visa application process is more stringent and transparent.
Official Statements
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, Clare O’Neil, stated that these changes are essential for restoring the integrity of Australia’s international education system. She emphasized that the new policies would help create a fairer and more efficient migration system that better serves Australia’s interests.
Previous Measures
This latest development follows a series of measures introduced over the past year to tighten student visa regulations. In March 2023, the government increased English language requirements for student visa applicants. In May 2023, the amount of savings required for international students to secure a visa was raised from $24,505 to $29,710.
Record Migration Levels
The policy changes come in response to a significant rise in net immigration, which surged by 60 percent to a record level of 548,800 individuals by September 30, 2023. The Australian government is taking these steps to ensure that the migration levels are controlled and sustainable.
For Pakistani students aspiring to study in Australia, the increased visa fees and additional restrictions pose new challenges. Prospective students and their families must now carefully consider their options, weighing the benefits of an Australian education against the higher costs and stricter regulations.
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