Rising Fees for UK, Australia, and EU Visa & Tuition

Starting from April 1st, those planning to visit, work, or study in the UK, Australia, or the European Union will face increased fees across a variety of categories. This includes hikes in visa application charges and tuition fees for international students. The changes will significantly impact Indians looking to go abroad, with costs rising for everything from short-term visits to longer-term educational pursuits.

In the UK, the cost for a six-month standard visitor visa will see an increase from £115 (around Rs 12,700) to £127 (approximately Rs 14,000). For those looking at longer stays, a two-year visa will now be priced at £475, up from £432. The fees for five-year visas will rise to £848 from £771, and the cost for ten-year visas will jump to £1,059 from £963. These hikes encompass a range of visa types, including visitor visas, work sponsorships, and long-term university courses.

Australian Universities to Increase Tuition Fees

Meanwhile, in Australia, international students will need to prepare for a rise in tuition fees, with several universities announcing increases of over 7%. For instance, engineering courses will now cost AUD 56,480 (₹30.36 lakh) annually, while clinical medicine fees will skyrocket to AUD 112,832 (₹60.66 lakh) at some Melbourne-based institutions. In Sydney, the majority of courses will see an annual fee of AUD 58,560.

The European Union is also introducing changes, with a new digital entry permit for visa-exempt travelers set to cost €7, valid for three years. However, it is important to note that Indians will still be required to obtain a Schengen visa despite this new permit. This move indicates a broader trend of tightening policies around travel and education for international visitors.

This spike in fees reflects a global shift towards increasing revenue from international travelers and students, a trend that could impact the decision-making of many Indians planning to study or visit these destinations. With these changes set to take effect shortly, potential visitors and students are advised to plan accordingly.