Migrating from India to Australia is a life-changing decision that involves significant financial planning. Understanding the expenses involved in the migration process helps individuals and families budget accordingly. In this article, we break down the various costs associated with moving to Australia from India, including visa fees, relocation expenses, and settlement costs.
Visa Application Fees
The cost of visas varies depending on the type of visa applied for. Below are some of the most common visa categories and their costs:
1. Skilled Migration Visas
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): AUD 4,640 for the main applicant
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): AUD 4,640 for the main applicant
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa): AUD 4,640 for the main applicant
- Additional applicants (18 and over): AUD 2,320 each
- Additional applicants (under 18): AUD 1,160 each
Learn more about Skilled Migration Visas
2. Partner and Family Visas
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100): AUD 8,850
- Child Visa (Subclass 101/802): AUD 2,790
- Parent Visa (Subclass 143): AUD 47,755
Learn more about Partner and Family Visas
3. Student Visa
- Subclass 500 (Student Visa): AUD 710
4. Business and Investor Visas
- Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment Visa): AUD 9,450
English Language Test Costs
Most visa applicants must take an English proficiency test, such as:
- IELTS: AUD 410
- PTE Academic: AUD 410
- TOEFL iBT: AUD 415
Skills Assessment Fees
Skilled migration visas require a skills assessment by relevant authorities. The cost depends on the occupation and assessing authority:
- Engineers Australia: AUD 1,050
- ACS (IT Professionals): AUD 600 – 1,050
- VETASSESS (General Skilled Migration): AUD 968 – 1,700
Medical Examination and Police Clearance
- Medical Examination: AUD 350 – 500 per person (varies by clinic)
- Police Clearance Certificate (India): INR 1,000 – 1,500
- Australian Federal Police Check (if required): AUD 42
Relocation and Travel Costs
1. Airfare
- One-way ticket from India to Australia: AUD 800 – 2,000 per person (depending on season and airline)
2. Shipping and Baggage Costs
- Shipping household items (20ft container): AUD 4,000 – 7,000
- Additional baggage fees: AUD 100 – 300 per extra suitcase
Living Costs Upon Arrival
Migrants need to budget for initial living expenses:
- Temporary Accommodation (First 2 Weeks): AUD 700 – 2,000
- Rental Bond (Equivalent to 4 Weeks’ Rent): AUD 2,000 – 3,500
- Public Transport (First Month): AUD 150 – 250
- Basic Groceries (Per Month): AUD 500 – 800
Health Insurance
Temporary visa holders must have health insurance:
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): AUD 500 – 2,000 per year
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC): AUD 600 – 2,500 per year
Miscellaneous Expenses
- Driver’s License Conversion: AUD 50 – 150
- Job Readiness Programs: AUD 500 – 1,000
- School Enrollment Fees (for children): AUD 5,000 – 10,000 per year (for international students)
Estimated Total Cost Breakdown
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa Fees | 4,640 – 47,755 |
| English Test | 410 – 415 |
| Skills Assessment | 600 – 1,700 |
| Medical & Police Checks | 400 – 600 |
| Airfare | 800 – 2,000 |
| Shipping Costs | 4,000 – 7,000 |
| Initial Living Costs | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Health Insurance | 500 – 2,500 |
| Miscellaneous | 500 – 1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 15,000 – 70,000+ |
The cost of migrating to Australia from India varies based on visa type, family size, and lifestyle choices. Proper financial planning ensures a smooth transition to life in Australia. Seeking expert guidance from migration consultants can help minimize unexpected expenses and streamline the process.
