Australia vs United States: student visa
Australia or United States for a student visa? Side by side: $377 vs $254 all-in, About 30 days vs Varies by post decision, funds to show, process type, biometrics and which one fits your plan.
Verdict
- United States is cheaper ($254 vs $377 all-in)
- Australia decides faster (About 30 days)
- Australia asks for less money in the bank ($42,000 vs $50,000)
Australia vs United States: student visa side by side
| Australia | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa format | E-visa | Sticker |
| Process | e-visa | embassy visa |
| Biometrics | No | Required |
| Interview | No | Yes |
| Government fee | $178 | $185 |
| vistolane filing fee | $199 | $69 |
| All-in per traveller | $377 | $254 |
| Decision window | About 30 days | Varies by post |
| Validity | 12 months | 10 years |
| Stay | Up to 3 months per visit | Up to 6 months per visit |
| Entries | Multiple | Multiple |
| Funds to show (student visa) | $42,000 | $50,000 |
| student visa route | Subclass 500 Study | F-1 Student |
Which is cheaper?
Australia costs $377 all-in ($178 government fee plus $199 filing) and United States costs $254 ($185 plus $69). United States is cheaper by $123 per traveller. Neither figure includes optional attention plans or airport transfers.
Which is faster?
Australia: About 30 days (Visitor (600): 75% within about 30 days). United States: Varies by post (Interview waits of several months at busy posts). United States depends on interview availability, which can add weeks at busy posts. vistolane quotes a guaranteed decision date for both before you pay.
Which needs less money in the bank?
Australia asks for about $42,000 and United States about $50,000 for a student visa. Australia is the lower bar. In both, statements must be seasoned for three months and match the plan you describe.
How the processes differ
Australia: e-visa. United States: embassy visa with biometrics. An e-visa needs no appointment; a sticker visa holds your passport for the decision window; an embassy visa adds an interview and a decision at the window.
Which should you pick for a student visa?
For study, the visa is the smaller decision; compare first-year funds ($42,000 vs $50,000), post-study work rights and whether dependants can join. Australia has the lower funds bar; the institution's licence to sponsor matters in both.