Applying for a visa to Australia comes with an associated cost, known as the Visa Application Charge (VAC). These fees vary based on the type of visa, the number of applicants, and specific government regulations. The Australian government periodically updates these fees, and as of July 1, 2024, significant changes have been introduced.
Understanding the Visa Application Charge (VAC)
The Visa Application Charge (VAC) is the mandatory fee required when submitting a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs. The cost varies depending on factors such as:
- Visa subclass (tourist, student, skilled migration, etc.)
- Number of applicants (primary applicant and dependents)
- Location of application (onshore or offshore)
- Additional services (such as health checks, biometric fees, and priority processing)
Recent Updates to Visa Application Fees (Effective July 1, 2024)
In line with economic changes and policy updates, the Australian Government has revised the VAC for several visa categories. Key updates include:
- Student Visa Fees More Than Doubled
- Increase in Skilled Migration and Employer-Sponsored Visa Fees
- Higher Charges for Partner and Family Visas
Let’s explore the updated visa fees for different categories:
1. Student Visas (Subclass 500 & 590)
One of the most significant changes in 2024 is the sharp increase in student visa fees.
New Fee Structure:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 1,750 (previously AUD 1,600, 10% increase)
- Additional Applicant (Over 18): AUD 1,300 (previously AUD 1,190)
- Additional Applicant (Under 18): AUD 450 (previously AUD 390)
These changes reflect the government’s strategy to ensure international education remains sustainable while covering administrative costs.
People also read: Student Dependent Visa Checklist for 2025 (Spouses and Children)
2. Visitor Visas (Subclass 600)
For tourists and business visitors, the visa application fees have also been revised.
New Fee Structure:
- Tourist Stream: AUD 220 (previously AUD 195)
- Frequent Traveller Stream: AUD 1,500
3. Working Holiday Visas (Subclass 417 & 462)
If you are planning to work and travel in Australia, the updated visa fees are:
New Fee Structure:
- Base Application Fee: AUD 700 (previously AUD 650)
People also read: 2025 Minimum Wage in Australia
4. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
For skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers, the updated fees are:
New Fee Structure:
- Short-Term Stream: AUD 1,600 (previously AUD 1,495)
- Medium and Long-Term Stream: AUD 3,250 (previously AUD 3,115)
5. Employer-Sponsored Permanent Residency (Subclass 186)
This visa allows skilled workers to gain permanent residency in Australia under employer sponsorship.
New Fee Structure:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,950 (previously AUD 4,770)
- Additional Applicant (Over 18): AUD 2,450
- Additional Applicant (Under 18): AUD 1,250
People also read: Employer-Sponsored Visas and Regional Sponsorship Pathways in Australia
6. General Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491, 494)
For skilled migrants applying independently or via state/territory nomination:
New Fee Structure:
- Primary Applicant: AUD 4,950 (previously AUD 4,765)
- Additional Applicant (Over 18): AUD 2,450
- Additional Applicant (Under 18): AUD 1,250
People also read: Australian Government Jobs Overseas in 2025
7. Partner and Family Visas (Subclass 300, 820/801, 309/100)
Applicants looking to sponsor family members or partners need to be aware of the increased charges.
New Fee Structure:
- Partner Visa: AUD 9,350 (previously AUD 9,095)
- Parent (Contributory) Visa – First Installment: AUD 5,050 (previously AUD 4,895)
People also read: Can I Extend My Parents’ Tourist Visa in Australia?
8. Business Innovation and Investment Visas (Subclass 188A, 188B)
For investors and entrepreneurs:
New Fee Structure:
- Business Visa: AUD 10,000 (previously AUD 9,710)
People also read: Exploring Business and Investor Visas for Australia (Subclass 188, 888)
Additional Costs to Consider
Besides the Visa Application Charge (VAC), there are additional costs that applicants should factor in:
1. Health Examination Fees
Certain visas require applicants to undergo medical checks, which can cost anywhere from AUD 150 to AUD 550 depending on the country of application.
2. Biometric Collection Fees
Some applicants may be required to provide biometric data, incurring an additional AUD 60 – AUD 120.
3. English Language Testing (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
If proof of English proficiency is required, testing fees range between AUD 350 – AUD 450.
4. Priority Processing Fees
Applicants who want faster processing can pay an additional fee, ranging from AUD 350 to AUD 2,500.
How to Pay the Visa Application Fee
The VAC can be paid through various methods:
- Credit/Debit Card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX)
- PayPal (for online applications)
- BPAY (for applicants in Australia)
- Direct Bank Transfer (available for specific visa subclasses)
- Money Order/Bank Draft (for paper-based applications)
Understanding the Visa Application Charge (VAC) and additional costs is crucial when planning to migrate or visit Australia. With recent increases across multiple visa categories, it is advisable to budget accordingly and stay updated on the latest changes.
For the most accurate and updated information, always check the Department of Home Affairs website before submitting your application.
Need Assistance?
If you’re unsure which visa suits you best or need help with the application process, consider consulting a migration agent for expert guidance.
For more insights into Australian visas, migration, and resettlement, visit our australian migration plus program today!
