Australia Tightens Immigration Rules Amid Housing Market Strain
The Australian government is implementing measures to manage record immigration levels that haveexacerbated the nation's tight housing market. A significant part of these measures is a substantial increase in visa fees for international students, aimed at regulating the influx of foreign nationals into the country.
Student Visa Fee Hike and Application Restrictions
Starting today, the fee for an international student visa in Australia has increased to A$1,600 (HK$8,330) from the previous A$710. Additionally, visitor visa holders and students with temporary graduate visas are now prohibited from applying for a student visa while onshore. This policy change aims to restore integrity to Australia's international education system and create a fairer and more manageable migration framework.