Australia Visa Fees Increased from 1 July 2026 – Don't Delay Your Visa Application

From 1 July 2026, the Australian Government introduced significant increases to many visa application charges. While visa fees are commonly adjusted at the beginning of each financial year, this year's increases are substantially higher across several visa categories. The new fees apply to all applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026. (Immigration and citizenship Website)

For anyone planning to study, work, migrate, or join family members in Australia, this is an important reminder:

Delaying your application could end up costing you thousands of dollars more.

Visa Fee Comparison (Before vs After 1 July 2026)

Visa / Service	Before 1 July 2026	From 1 July 2026	Increase
Student Visa (Subclass 500)	$2,000	$2,500	+$500
Student Visa (ELICOS / Non-award)	$2,000	$2,050	+$50
Student Visa (Eligible ASEAN countries including Indonesia)	$2,000	$2,050	+$50
Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485)	$4,600	$5,750	+$1,150
Skilled Independent (189)	$4,910	$6,135	+$1,225
Skilled Nominated (190)	$4,910	$6,140	+$1,230
Skills in Demand (482)	$3,210	$4,015	+$805
Employer Nomination Scheme (186)	$4,910	$6,140	+$1,230
Partner Visa (820/801)	$9,795	$11,710	+$1,915
Partner Visa (309/100)	$9,795	$11,710	+$1,915
Parent Visa (Subclass 103)	$5,125	$6,600	+$1,475
Child Visa offshore (subclass 101)	$3,235	$4,040	+$805
Child Visa onshore (Subclass 802)	$3,235	$4,040	+$805
Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)	$3,580	$3,727	+$147
Resident Return Visa (RRV)	$490	$1,475	+$985
Bridging Visa B (BVB)	$190	$575	+$385
Visitor Visa onshore (Subclass 600)	$500	$630	+AUD 130
Visitor Visa offshore (Subclass 600)	$200	$250	+AUD 50

There are still many other fees increase, you can check via government website "visa pricing estimator". Government visa application charges only. Additional costs such as health examinations, police certificates, English tests, skills assessments, or professional fees may also apply. 

Why You Shouldn't Wait

Many people postpone lodging their visa application because they're still collecting documents or hoping to apply "next month."

Unfortunately, migration policies can change at any time.

We've already seen major fee increases over the past two years, and although annual changes around 1 July are expected, governments can introduce additional changes without much notice.

Waiting could mean:

• Paying a much higher government application fee.

• Facing new policy or eligibility changes.

• Missing opportunities under current migration settings.

The best time to prepare your application is before another increase happens.

A Visa Refusal Can Become Much More Expensive

Many visa refusals are caused by avoidable mistakes, including:

• Missing supporting documents.

• Incorrect information.

• Applying under the wrong visa pathway.

• Not meeting visa requirements.

• Poorly prepared evidence.

  
  

Remember, visa application charges are generally not refundable if your application is refused. In many cases, applicants who receive a refusal may choose to seek a review through the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), which now also has a higher application fee. This can lead to additional costs, delays, and uncertainty.

A well-prepared application from the beginning can help reduce these risks.

Preparation Is More Important Than Ever

As visa costs continue to rise, every application matters.

Instead of rushing or relying on incomplete information from social media, make sure you:

• Understand your eligibility.

• Prepare the correct documents.

• Choose the most suitable visa pathway.

• Lodge a complete and accurate application.

Getting professional advice before you apply can save you significant time, money, and stress.

Need Help With Your Australian Visa?

Whether you're applying for:

• Student Visa

• Skilled Migration (189, 190, 482, 186)

• Partner Visa

• Child Visa

• Parent Visa

• Bridging Visas

• Resident Return Visa (RRV)

our experienced team can help you understand your options and prepare your application properly.

Send us your enquiry today : info.sevsaustralia@gmail.com

Don't wait until the next fee increase. Start preparing your application today and give yourself the best chance of a successful outcome.