The government of India has raised concerns over Australia's recent decision to more than double the visa fees for international students, a move that is expected to place a substantial financial burden on students, particularly from India, wishing to pursue their studies in Australia.
The Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, stated “The hike in visa fee is expected to pose financial challenges to international students, including those from India, intending to pursue their studies in Australia.”
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs India said the sharp increase in visa fees -- raised from Australian $710 to Australian $1600 (from Rs 38,573 to Rs 88,180 approx) -- has sparked criticism, especially considering the large number of Indian students enrolled in Australian educational institutions each year.
The government is actively following up with Australian officials to seek a reconsideration of the fee hike and to ensure that the interests of Indian students are adequately protected.
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