Australia increased visa application charges for many popular visa subclasses from 1 July 2026, with most government fees rising by 25%, making careful budgeting more important than ever.
Anyone planning to lodge an Australian visa application should check the latest government charges before applying. While annual fee indexation is expected, the increases that took effect on 1 July 2026 are substantially higher than in previous years across several commonly applied-for visa categories.
The largest dollar increase applies to the Partner visa, which now costs $11,710, up from $9,365. Applicants for the Student (subclass 500) visa, Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa, Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa and several skilled migration visas will also pay significantly higher application charges.
The updated government application charges for selected visa subclasses are shown below.
| Visa Type (Subclass) | New Fee | Old Fee | % Increase | $ Increase |
| Partner Visa (820/801 or 309/100) | $11,710 | $9,365 | 25% | $2,345 |
| Student Visa (500) | $2,500 | $2,000 | 25% | $500 |
| Temporary Graduate (485) | $5,750 | $4,600 | 25% | $1,150 |
| Skills in Demand (482) | $4,015 | $3,210 | 25% | $805 |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186) | $6,140 | $4,910 | 25% | $1,230 |
| Skilled Employer Sponsor Regional (494) | $6,140 | $4,910 | 25% | $1,230 |
| Skilled Independent (189) | $6,135 | $4,910 | 25% | $1,225 |
| State Nomination (190) | $6,140 | $4,910 | 25% | $1,230 |
| Skilled Work Regional (491) | $6,140 | $4,910 | 25% | $1,230 |
Note: Government charges may vary depending on the visa stream and individual circumstances. Additional charges apply for secondary applicants.
Applicants should budget for more than the government application charge alone. Depending on the visa, they may also need to pay for English language tests, skills assessments, health examinations, police clearances and certified document translations. These additional expenses can significantly increase the total cost of applying.
Need Advice Before You Apply?
With government visa application charges now significantly higher, choosing the right visa pathway before lodging an application is more important than ever.
At SALIA Lawyers & Associates, we assist individuals, families and employers with tailored immigration advice across employer-sponsored, skilled, partner, student and other Australian visa pathways. Our legal team can assess your eligibility, discuss the most suitable migration options, identify potential issues before they become costly mistakes and help you prepare a well-supported application.
If you are planning to apply for an Australian visa, booking a consultation early can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the new Australian visa fees take effect?
The updated government visa application charges took effect on 1 July 2026. Applications lodged on or after this date are generally subject to the new fees.
How much does a Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa cost in 2026?
The government application charge for a primary applicant is now $4,015, an increase from $3,210.
How much is the Australian Partner visa application fee?
The government application charge for the Partner (subclasses 820/801 and 309/100) visa is now $11,710, making it one of Australia’s most expensive visa applications.
How much does a Student visa cost?
The government application charge for the Student (subclass 500) visa is $2,500 from 1 July 2026.
Which skilled migration visas increased in price?
The updated fees apply to several skilled migration visas, including the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190), Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491), Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494).
Are there other costs besides the government application charge?
Yes. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to pay for English language testing, skills assessments, health examinations, police clearances, biometrics, document translations and other supporting requirements.
Should I seek advice before applying?
If you are unsure which visa best suits your circumstances, obtaining professional migration advice before lodging your application may help you avoid unnecessary costs and ensure you meet the relevant visa requirements.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
