Australia Announces Visa Fees Increase of Around 25%
Australia Announces Visa Fees Increase of around 25% from 1 July 2026, marking one of the largest increases to Visa Application Charges (VACs) in more than a decade. While VACs typically increase by around 2–5% each year in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), most skilled and family visa application fees have now risen by approximately 25%—around eight times the usual annual adjustment. Some visa categories have seen even larger increases, exceeding 200%.
The applicable visa application charge is the fee in effect on the date your application is lodged and paid. There are no exceptions, and all VACs are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application. This means that applications that are refused do not qualify for a refund.
Australia Announces Visa Fees
With visa costs now significantly higher, submitting a complete, decision-ready application has never been more important. Providing accurate information and all required supporting documents from the outset can help reduce the risk of delays, requests for further information (RFIs), or refusal.
| Visa Category | Previous Fee | New Fee (From 1 July 2026) | Increase |
| 482 Skills in Demand | AUD 3,210 | AUD 4,015 | +25% |
| 186 / 494 (Permanent) | AUD 4,910 | AUD 6,140 | +25% |
| 189 Skilled Independent | AUD 4,910 | AUD 6,135 | +25% |
| 190 / 491 | AUD 4,910 | AUD 6,140 | +25% |
| Partner 820 / 309 | AUD 9,365 | AUD 11,710 | +25% |
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) | AUD 2,000 | AUD 2,500 | +25% |
| Bridging Visa B (020) | AUD 190 | AUD 575 | +203% |
| Resident Return Visa (155) | AUD 490 | AUD 1,475 | +201% |
| ART Review (Migration) | AUD 3,580 | AUD 3,727 | — |
For more updates, visit us at https://immivisa.com.au/
