As a Pacific Island, Timor-Leste or ASEAN citizen, do I have to pay the new AUD 2,500 Australia student visa fee starting 1 July 2026?

If you hold citizenship from an eligible Pacific Island nation, Timor-Leste, or an ASEAN country, you are not affected by the jump to AUD 2,500 that took effect from 1 July 2026 for most Subclass 500 applicants. Your visa fee continues under a concessional arrangement, rising only by routine cost of living adjustments rather than the full increase. This distinction is worth confirming with official sources before you budget for your application.

Fee Comparison From 1 July 2026

Why This Concession Exists

• It reflects long standing regional cooperation and mobility arrangements between Australia and these nations
• The concession applies specifically to the primary visa application charge, not to every associated cost of studying
• Eligibility depends on your citizenship, so dual nationals should confirm which passport applies to their application

Because concessional eligibility is citizenship specific, it is worth double checking your exact status with an official source rather than assuming the lower rate applies automatically.

My Advice

If you believe you qualify for the concessional rate, confirm your eligibility and the exact current fee directly through official Australian government channels before you pay. Keep proof of your citizenship ready when you submit your application, since this is what supports your concessional fee claim.