Surprise increase makes Australian visa application fee among most expensive in the world, as new survey finds rising costs putting prospective students off
International students say the Australian government is making them feel like “cash cows” and sending a clear message they are unwelcome after home affairs more than doubled the price of visa applications overnight.
The non-refundable visa fee rose from $710 to $1,600 without prior warning on Monday, making it one of the most expensive in the world and well in excess of competitors New Zealand (A$343), Canada (A$164), the UK (A$932) and the US (A$277).
The rise follows a series of migration reforms including a prospective cap on foreign enrolments that research suggests may dissuade prospective students from choosing Australia as a study destination.
Education officer at the Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association, Weihong Liang, says students were “shocked” by the dramatic increase in visa fees - and the short notice that was provided.
“Students plan their studies several months in advance,” Liang, who is also a Chinese international student, said. “These sudden changes have forced those who decided to come here around July to swallow a bitter pill.
“They have to bear the additional costs, or else all their preparations will be in vain.”
The minister for education, Jason Clare, said the rise reflected the increased value of education in Australia and would be directed towards higher education initiatives.
“These changes will strengthen integrity in the international education system and help to fund important reforms recommended by the Universities Accord,” he said.
But Liang said the fee change, coupled with other recent reforms, including adjustments to visa requirements and the international student cap, had sent the international community a “clear message” from the Australian government.
“They are extremely unwelcoming to international students,” he said.
“It is an unfair practice, exploiting the students who plan to study in Australia. This message will soon to be shared to a wider, global community, issuing warnings and advisories to more students from experiencing such harsh treatment.”
Weihong Liang, education officer at the Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association, says the federal government is sending a clear message to international students that they’re not welcome. Photograph: Supplied
A survey commissioned by IDP Education and provided to Guardian Australia found 62.5% of prospective students would be put off from studying in Australia if there was a significant increase to visa fees.
The survey, which received more than 1,400 responses last month, found 22% would choose another study destination if Australia’s visa became the most expensive in the world, while 40.6% would reconsider their options.
Director of partnerships and stakeholder engagement at IDP Connect, Joanna Storti, said there was “no question” there will be a decline in students applying to study in Australia.
“Quality students can also be very price conscious students, and a 125% increase overnight is a big leap of faith for visa applicants when grant rates are unpredictable right now,” she said.
“Markets are becoming increasingly price sensitive and Australia is now the most expensive by far. This will potentially provide pause.”
Storti noted the change comes amid a decline in Australia’s global rankings, dropping from equal first preferred study destination with Canada in IDP’s research last October to second place this year.
“International students are very tuned in to political debate and are attracted to destinations they feel welcome and valued,” she says.
“We’re quite concerned this visa increase sends a negative message about Australia, and students vote with their feet.”
Recent masters graduate, Julia Khadka, who comes from Nepal, said the previous fee of $710 was already a “significant financial burden” on Nepalese students.

Nepalese international student Julia Khadka says the increased visa cost could lead to a decline in applications, with Australia becoming ‘out of reach’ for many
“Australia, once a favoured destination, might now be out of reach for many, prompting them to seek more affordable alternatives,” she said.
Khadka says the news has been “particularly discouraging” as it comes during a high visa rejection rate.
The number of student visas granted to Nepalese applicants more than halved in the year to the end of May compared with the same period in the previous year, from 32,758 to just 12,962.
“I feel deeply for those aspiring to study abroad,” Khadka said. “Everything is getting more expensive, and this added financial burden makes it even harder for students to achieve their dreams.”
Jaspreet Gill, a UTS student from Ludhiana, India, recently completed a bachelors degree in biotechnology in Australia and is now pursuing a masters in teaching.
He said he felt grateful to be financially supported by his parents, who take care of his expenses, but was worried for his family and friends who don’t have a similar backing.
“Not every student has my support,” he said. “Some of my friends have taken education loans, I’ve spoken with them and they say it’s an extra financial pressure now to consider Australia.
“It’s going to deter some students. It’s just so high now.”
Devis, a masters student from Nepal who asked not to use his last name, said the visa increase will have a “profound impact” on the financial stability of students applying to study in Australia for the first time or looking to extend.
“This change suggests that the Australian government views international students as cash cows,” he said.
“International students face significant discrimination compared to other visa holders.”

Bank of America (BofA) has welcomed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s reappointment, believing that South Africa’s GDP could start improving in the next few years and “turn the corner” in 2026 amid an enhanced performance from Eskom.

Following the 2024 election, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a Government of National Unity (GNU) as the ANC lost its majority in parliament.

Ten other parties have joined the GNU: DA, IFP, Good, PA, FF Plus, UDM, Rise Mzansi, PAC, Al-Jama Ah, and UAT.

Thus, the president included several of these parties in his cabinet, which increased from 30 to 32 to accommodate the new faces.

The markets have responded positively to the retention of the ANC’s Godongwana.

BofA said that Godongwana’s fiscal plan could benefit from potentially strong growth due to reduced levels of load shedding.

The government expects a main budget deficit of 4.3% of GDP in 2024/25 (BofA: 4.5%) and 3.9% in 2025 (BofA: 4.1%)

When including Eskom’s debt support, BofA’s all-in deficit is at 5.4% in 2024/25 and 4% in 2026/27.

During the 2023 Budget, Godongwana announced Eskom debt relief amounting to R254 billion from 2023/24 to 2025/2026.

BofA said that 2026 could be a turning point as Eskom will need no further support, leading to enough of a primary surplus to ensure debt stabilisation. (a year later than Treasury’s baseline).

Load shedding

Better electricity supply should also drive GDP growth stronger and result in better tax revenues.

Electricity supply has improved since April, with over 100 days of no load shedding in the country - the first time since 2021.

The enhanced power supply could represent a significant structural improvement if sustained for the rest of the year.

This could drive GDP growth towards 2% over the medium term.

“Stronger GDP growth should drive budget revenue growth higher. An improving fiscal outlook will likely result in tighter asset swap spreads over the medium term,” said BofA.

However, South Africa’s economy is not expected to shoot the lights out in the short term.

BofA economist Tatonga Rusike previously said that GDP should grow by 1.3% in 2024.

Other economists and analysts generally expect GDP to grow by roughly 1%.

Although this would be an improvement from 2023’s GDP growth of 0.6%, it is still incredibly low and far below what the country needs to keep up with population growth.

South Africa’s population growth generally hovers around 1.5%, meaning that anything below that figure represents a per-capita recession, meaning South Africans are getting poorer.

What to do

Amidst the low-growth environment, several prominent CEOs in South Africa recently spoke of what the country needs to do.

Discovery CEO Adrian Gore said that the Presidential task team Operation Vulindlela should have a unit focused on economic growth and jobs.

Standard Bank CEO Sim Tshabalala said that the state needs to be incapacitated and work with civil society and business to drive growth.

Tshabalala said that the Public Service Amendment Bill should be accelerated. This bill would introduce transparent and competitive recruitment processes in the public service, improve pay, and increase civil servants’ status.

Investec Bank CEO Cumesh Moodliar also called for greater public-private partnerships (PPPs), with a focus on logistics amid South Africa’s poor-performing ports and railroads

South Africa`s new Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber’s focus on remote working visas has been met with widespread enthusiasm.

He aims to attract digital nomads and remote workers from around the globe, positioning South Africa as a prime destination for professionals seeking a balance of work and leisure.

The Home Affairs Minister has expressed his commitment to making South Africa a more accessible and appealing location for remote workers.

Dr Schreiber emphasised the potential economic benefits and the opportunity to showcase the country`s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture to a broader audience.

`Remote working is not just a trend; it`s a transformation in how we live and work,` he said.

`By facilitating easier access for remote workers, we are opening doors to economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange.`

The push for remote working visas aligns with global shifts in work culture, accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Countries worldwide are recognising the value of attracting remote workers who contribute to local economies while enjoying the benefits of a flexible work environment.

South Africa`s appeal to remote workers lies not only in its diverse attractions, but also in its infrastructure and connectivity. The country offers a range of environments conducive to both productivity and relaxation.

Industry experts have applauded the minister`s initiative, highlighting the potential for South Africa to become a leading destination for digital nomads.

`This focus on remote working visas is a game-changer,` said a representative from the South African Tourism Board.

`It showcases our commitment to innovation and adaptability in an ever-changing world.`

As South Africa gears up to implement these changes, remote workers can look forward to a welcoming environment that supports their lifestyle and professional needs.

The new visa policies are expected to streamline the process, making it easier for digital nomads to live and work in South Africa for extended periods.

Synopsis
The key change is that individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, without a clear pathway to residency, can no longer sponsor their partners and dependent children for work, visitor
On June 26, 2024, New Zealand implemented changes to its visa regulations that will impact certain foreign workers and their families. The new rules aim to streamline the visa application process and align it more closely with the country`s economic and immigration priorities.
The key change is that individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, without a clear pathway to residency, can no longer sponsor their partners and dependent children for work, visitor, or student visas in New Zealand. This adjustment brings the AEWV scheme more in line with the previous Essential Skills Work Visa program.

However, it`s important to note that partners and dependent children can still apply for their own visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa or international student visas, as long as they meet the respective criteria. Additionally, the new rules do not impact individuals who already hold visas as partners or dependents, nor do they affect AEWV holders in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles with established pathways to residency, including the Green List and sector agreements.
The New Zealand Government has also confirmed that applications currently in progress for partner or dependent child visas will be assessed under the regulations in place at the time of application, ensuring continuity for affected individuals.
If you had already supported your family`s visa application before June 26th, 2024, you may still be able to sponsor a visa for your partner or dependent child under certain conditions. This includes situations where they already held a visa based on their relationship with you, or if their work, visitor, or student visa application was in progress before the rule change and was approved afterward.


For AEWV holders in ANZSCO skill levels 4 or 5 who earn less than NZD USD 47.41 per hour, you may still be able to sponsor a visa for your partner or dependent children. In order to be able to sponsor a partner of a Worker Work Visa for your partner, you will need to show that you earn at least NZD USD 29.66 per hour, whereas for a child of a Worker Visitor Visa or a Dependent Child Student Visa for your dependent children, you will need to provide a proof of least NZD USD 43,322.76 annually.

If your earnings are below NZD USD 29.66 per hour, you may be able to support a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa instead. Additionally, you could sponsor a work visa with open conditions if you earn at least NZD USD 59.32 per hour or if your job is listed on the Green List and you meet the role`s specific requirements.

These changes are part of a broader effort by the New Zealand government to streamline the visa application process and ensure that it aligns with the country`s economic and immigration priorities.

700,000 IDs Are Still Blocked by Home Affairs in South Africa: Are You One of Them? Check Here: In a landmark ruling that could potentially alter the lives of hundreds of thousands, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has declared the Department of Home Affairs’ (DHA) practice of blocking South African IDs as unconstitutional.
700,000 IDs Are Still Blocked by Home Affair
This judgment comes as a significant relief to many who have found themselves in a state of bureaucratic limbo, unable to access essential services due to the arbitrary blocking of their identification documents.
The legal battle, spearheaded by Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR), Legal Wise South Africa, and the Children’s Institute, highlights the severe implications of the DHA’s actions. The department, in its attempt to maintain the integrity of the National Population Register, blocked IDs it suspected to be fraudulent without prior notice or fair administrative processes. This practice left many individuals effectively stateless, unable to engage in fundamental aspects of daily life.
The Unconstitutional Practice of Blocking IDs
The issue dates back to May 2012, when the DHA initiated a campaign to address duplicate IDs in the National Population Register. What began with 29,000 identity documents quickly escalated, and by 2020, over one million IDs had markers placed against them, leading to their blocking. While the department has since unblocked 1.8 million IDs, more than 700,000 remain blocked, leaving those affected in a precarious situation.
The Gauteng High Court’s judgment, delivered by Judge Elmarie van der Schyff, declared that the DHA’s practice was an unjust and irregular administrative action inconsistent with the South African Constitution. The court emphasized that a mere suspicion of fraud did not justify the blocking of IDs without following just administrative procedures.
The Human Cost
The consequences of this practice have been far-reaching. Affected individuals, unable to obtain passports, travel, access education, healthcare, or even open bank accounts, have been rendered invisible in the eyes of the state. This “ghosting” effect not only disrupts the lives of adults but also severely impacts children whose parents’ IDs have been blocked.
Phindile Mazibuko, an Eswatini citizen who has lived in South Africa since 1998, brought the initial application forward. Her ID was blocked, and she faced the threat of losing her permanent residency. This case, joined by LHR and Legal Wise South Africa, was a matter of public interest, seeking to unblock the IDs and restore the affected individuals’ rights.
LHR, in their founding affidavit, argued that the blocking of IDs was unconstitutional as it left people in a state of statelessness. “They become ghosts in the system - they cannot obtain passports and travel, they cannot access education and healthcare, they cannot open or access bank accounts,” the organization stated.
The Court’s Decision
In her ruling, Judge Van der Schyff pointed out that while the Director-General has a responsibility to protect the integrity of the national population register, doing so without following just administrative procedures constitutes mischief. She stated that suspicion alone was insufficient to justify the blocking of IDs unless authorized through a court order, thus asserting that the DHA had overstepped its bounds.
The DHA, in its answering affidavit, admitted that the IDs were blocked without a fair and just administrative process, acknowledging that this was inconsistent with the Constitution. The department claimed to have since developed a procedurally fair and transparent system, although it still involves placing markers or blocking IDs.
Moving Forward
The court has ordered the DHA to assess whether unblocking the currently blocked IDs would pose a security risk and to determine the status of LHR and Legal Wise clients within 90 days. The declaration has been suspended for 12 months, providing the DHA with time to comply with the order.
LHR has welcomed the ruling as a significant step towards ensuring a fair and just administrative process. Palesa Maloisane, LHR’s Legal Consultant for Statelessness, emphasized the importance of this judgment in preventing statelessness and restoring citizenship and dignity to those affected. She expressed hope that the DHA would swiftly resolve the cases, particularly those involving children, to enable affected individuals to reclaim their lives and access essential services.
Check Your Status
If you suspect that your ID may be among the 700,000 still blocked, it is crucial to check your status and take necessary actions. Contact the DHA or seek assistance from organizations like LHR to ensure your rights are restored. This ruling marks the beginning of a journey towards justice and dignity for all South Africans affected by this unjust practice.
Conclusion
The Gauteng High Court’s decision is a critical victory for human rights and the rule of law in South Africa. It underscores the necessity of fair administrative processes and the protection of individuals’ rights against arbitrary state actions. As the DHA works to comply with the court’s order, the hope is that those affected will soon be able to fully participate in society, free from the constraints of a blocked ID