Student Visa Fee 2026

Are you planning to study in Australia? Understanding the Student Visa Fee 2026 should be one of the first steps in your application journey.

Australia continues to attract more students from around the world because of its globally recognised universities, high-quality education, and excellent post-study opportunities.

From 1 July 2026, the Australian Government has increased the application charge for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), meaning prospective students need to budget more carefully before lodging their visa application.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or the documents required, book an appointment with us for professional guidance before you apply.

New Student Visa Fee for 2026

The Australian Government has announced the following update for the Student Visa (Subclass 500):

Effective Date	Government Visa Fee
Before 1 July 2026	AUD 2,000
From 1 July 2026	AUD 2,500

This means applicants will now pay AUD 2,500 as the primary government application charge when lodging a new Student Visa application.

It is important to remember that this amount only covers the visa application fee. Additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), health examinations, English language tests, police certificates, and document translations may also apply depending on your circumstances.

Why Has the Student Visa Fee Increased?

The Australian Government reviews visa application charges each financial year. The latest increase reflects updated government fees across several visa categories.

Although the application charge has increased, Australia remains one of the world’s leading destinations for international education. Students continue to benefit from internationally recognised qualifications, access to modern learning facilities, multicultural communities, and opportunities to gain valuable work experience during and after their studies.

When planning your education budget, it’s important to include the updated Australian Student Visa Cost alongside tuition fees and living expenses.

Who Needs a Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is required for most international students who wish to study full-time at an approved Australian education provider.

This visa allows eligible students to:

• Study at a registered Australian institution
• Stay in Australia for the duration of their course
• Work within the permitted work conditions while studying
• Travel in and out of Australia while the visa remains valid
• Include eligible family members in the application where applicable

Planning Your Budget for 2026

The increase in the Subclass 500 Visa Fee means students should review their finances before applying.

In addition to the government application charge, you should budget for:

• Tuition fees
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Accommodation
• Airfares
• Living expenses
• Medical examinations
• English language testing
• Police clearance certificates

Having a realistic financial plan helps reduce delays and ensures you’re prepared throughout the application process.

Should You Apply Soon?

If you are planning to begin your studies in Australia, it’s important not to leave your visa application until the last minute.

Getting your documents ready early gives you more time to collect financial evidence, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), complete any required medical exams, and quickly respond if you need to provide more information.

At Oracle Immigration Consultants, we help candidates throughout the application process by helping them understand eligibility requirements, review documentation, and prepare a complete visa application.

Book an appointment with Oracle Immigration Consultants to discuss your study plans and receive personalised migration advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Student Visa Fee in 2026?

From 1 July 2026, the government application charge for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is AUD 2,500.

Is the government visa fee refundable?

In most cases, the government application fee is non-refundable once a valid visa application has been lodged, even if the application is refused.

Can I include family members in my application?  

Yes, you can include eligible family members in your application, but you will need to pay extra visa fees for each dependent.

Should I get migration advice before applying?  

Getting professional advice can help you understand what you need for the visa, prepare the right documents, and avoid delays in your application.

The increase in the Student Visa Fee 2026 means international students should plan their finances well before submitting an application. Understanding the latest government charges and preparing the correct documentation can make the process much smoother.

If you are planning to study in Australia and would like professional assistance, book an appointment with us.