Pursuing a study abroad dream incurs expenditure, which is big enough to be an investment. We make this investment because we expect high returns out of it, including better quality education and better living conditions. Those who are exporting education should ensure that they provide the best to remain attractive to those pursuing this dream. Staying attractive, in turn, requires expenditure on the part of the government.
Starting July 1, 2024, the Australian government increased the student visa application fees from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600. The move has pulled diverse reactions, much of it being of dissatisfaction. Increased fees on anything are unwelcoming, however, this move is to provide a better experience to international students.
One immediate reaction to increased visa fees is that Australia wants aspiring students to refrain from applying for their study visas. This thinking of people is without any base. Had this been the case, Australia would have maintained the earlier fees and simply rejected visa applications, pocketing easy money.
When we look at the whole picture, the new accounting year has started for Australia, and fees for different types of visas have been increased. Among them, the maximum increase has been made for student visas for Australia. So this is a routine occurrence; just like any other commodity, visas offered by Australia have seen price increases. This has nothing to do with discouraging students from applying for student visas.
However, our observation says that it will discourage those who are not serious about studies or whose primary objective is not to study, but want to gain entry in Australia through a student visa. Only those students who are serious about studies will apply for Australian student visas and want to benefit from the high quality of education provided there. This will ultimately improve the visa acceptance rate as well, something which has slid down dramatically in the past year, and will move back up and touch the previous 90% approval rate.
How the Revised Visa Fees Will Affect Students
The Australian government aims to ensure that students receive top-quality education. Educational institutions will be put under strict scrutiny and providers that are found to be of lower quality will be asked to move out. This may impact the visa applications that are submitted by prospective students.
Initiatives such as the Workplace Justice Visa Pilot and Strengthening Employer Compliance Bill aim to prevent the exploitation of temporary visa holders. This can be considered a positive step to ensure the well-being and safety of students. Extending the stay in Australia after completing studies may become difficult for students as there are changes in temporary graduate visas, including age eligibility reduction and shortened duration. This will affect the future career plans of a student.
The Australian government has come down heavily on loopholes that were used by immigrants to stay long in the country. Students will find it hard to extend their visas beyond the initial tenure that was awarded to them. Thus, those who are planning for a long-term stay will have to prepare and apply for it from the very beginning because no changes will be entertained thereafter. Talk to overseas education consultants in Chandigarh and share your purpose of moving to Australia and apply with proper preparation.
Two Sides of A Coin: Good and Bad
Every rule has something good and bad associated with it, and these changes are no different. The increased fee will help the government in funding the improvement schemes in the education sector, with the promise of providing a better learning experience for international students.
Strict regulations will remove low-quality education providers, ensuring that only genuine educational opportunities are offered. Plus, students will be protected against exploitation. Even though visa fees have been doubled, and will increase the financial burden, if the Australian government comes out true to its promise of providing good education, then the increased burden can be justified.
How Aspiring International Students Should Walk the Path Ahead
Now that the visa application fees have been increased, one will have to make adjustments accordingly. Since you will be paying more, make sure that you pursue education from an institution that has a reputation with a proven track record. Immigration consultants in Chandigarh can help you navigate through the application process and advise on the post-graduation plans.
The Bottom Line
Australia will, even with increased visa application fees, continue to remain one of the most desirable destinations for international students. A well-informed approach with new considerations and professional guidance will ensure a successful study abroad experience for you.
