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Visa Application Fees Reduced for 13 Countries – Are You on the List?

Visa Application Fees Reduced for 13 Countries

Visa Application Fees Reduced for 13 Countries. The Australian Government has introduced a Reduced Visa Application Charge (VAC) for specific countries, including those in the Subclass 500 (Student Visa) and Subclass 590 (Student Guardian Visa) categories, for passport holders from specified Pacific countries and Timor-Leste, effective 22 March 2025.

What Has Changed?

Previously, eligible applicants had to pay the full visa application charge (VAC) and later request a partial refund. However, under the Migration Amendment (Differential Student Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2025, the VAC will now be reduced upfront, eliminating the need for refunds.

Who Is Eligible for the Reduced VAC?

The reduced VAC applies to:

• Primary applicants applying for a Subclass 500 or Subclass 590 visa.
• Secondary applicants who apply together with the primary applicant.
• Family unit members of a Subclass 500 or Subclass 590 visa holder with a passport from one of the eligible countries.

List of Eligible Countries

Applicants holding a valid passport from the following countries will benefit from the reduced VAC:

• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Kiribati
• Nauru
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Republic of the Marshall Islands
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

When Does This Change Take Effect?

• From 22 March 2025, all new Subclass 500 and Subclass 590 visa applications made by eligible applicants will automatically be charged the reduced VAC.
• If you applied between 1 July 2024 and 21 March 2025, you can request a partial refund of your VAC until 22 June 2025.

Who Does NOT Qualify for the Reduced VAC?

• Applicants who paid the first VAC installment before 22 March 2025.
• Applicants who do not hold a passport from the specified Pacific countries or Timor-Leste.
• Those applying for visas other than Subclass 500 or 590.

The Reduced VAC for Pacific and Timor-Leste passport holders is a huge financial relief for students and their families. If you’re planning to study in Australia, ensure you apply after 22 March 2025 to benefit from this cost-saving opportunity.

To know more visit https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2025L00185/latest/text.

For expert assistance with your Australian student visa application, contact Immivisa today! Our experienced migration consultants are ready to help you navigate the process and secure your visa with ease.