Australian Visa Fees 2026: How Much Does a Visa Cost?
- Leading Edge
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Navigating the Australian immigration system is an exciting step toward a new life, but it requires careful financial planning. The Department of Home Affairs typically updates its Visa Application Charges (VAC) annually, and as of early 2026, prices reflect the latest indexation and policy shifts.
If you are planning to apply this year, here is the essential breakdown of what you can expect to pay.
Current Australian Visa Fees for 2026
The following table outlines the base application fees for the most popular visa subclasses. Keep in mind that these fees are for the primary applicant; additional charges apply for partners and dependent children.
Visa Category | Subclass | Primary Applicant Fee (AUD) |
Student Visa | 500 | $2,000 |
Partner Visa (Onshore/Offshore) | 820 / 309 | $9,365 |
Skilled Independent | 189 | $4,910 |
Skilled Nominated | 190 | $4,910 |
Skilled Regional (Provisional) | 491 | $4,910 |
Skills in Demand (Work Visa) | 482 | $3,210 |
Visitor Visa (Offshore) | 600 | From $200 |
Temporary Graduate | 485 | $2,300 |
Employer Nomination Scheme | 186 | $4910 |
Pro Tip: Australian visa fees are generally non-refundable. If your application is refused due to a simple error, you will likely lose the entire fee. This is why many applicants choose to work with a registered migration agent to ensure their application is "decision-ready."
Beyond the Base Fee: Hidden Costs to Budget For
The "sticker price" of the visa is rarely the total cost. Depending on your subclass and country of origin, you should also budget for:
Skills Assessment Fees: For skilled migration (189/190/491), your occupation must be assessed. These fees range from $500 to $1,500+ depending on the authority (e.g., ACS, Engineers Australia, or VETASSESS).
English Language Tests: Tests like PTE Academic or IELTS typically cost around $300 – $450.
Health Examinations: Mandatory medical checks by approved panel physicians cost approximately $350 – $500 per adult.
Police Clearances: Required for every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months. Costs vary worldwide.
Biometrics: If required, expect a small service fee (usually under $100) at a collection center.
Why the Cost is an Investment, Not Just an Expense
With a Partner Visa costing nearly $9,400 and Skilled Visas close to $5,000, the financial stakes are high. At Leading Edge Migration, we see these fees as an investment in your future.
Our Perth-based team, led by Navneet Kaur (MARN: 1801703), specializes in maximizing the "return" on that investment. We help you:
Avoid Refusals: We identify potential red flags before you pay the government fee.
Maximize Points: For skilled visas, we ensure every possible point is claimed to increase your chance of an invitation.
Save Time: Our "decision-ready" approach can lead to faster processing by the Department.
Ready to Start Your Australian Journey?
Don't let the complexity of visa fees and regulations stall your dreams. Whether you're looking for a skilled visa, a partner visa, or a student pathway, we provide transparent pricing and expert strategy to get you here.
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances
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