Why the change?
The Department of Home Affairs has adjusted fees in line with annual indexation measures to meet rising administrative costs, boost funding for the immigration system, and enhance border management.
What\’s New: Fee Breakdown by Visa Type
Partner Visas (Subclasses 309/100, 300, 820/801)
- Main applicant: $9,095 → $9,365
- Each adult family member (18+): $4,550 → $4,685
- Each child (<18): $2,280 → $2,345
Skilled Migration (189, 190, 491, 494)
- Main applicant: ~$4,770 → $4,910
- Adult dependants (18+): $2,385 → $2,455
- Child dependants (<18): ~$1,190 → $1,230
Employer‑Sponsored Visas
- Temporary Skill Shortage (482): $3,115 → $3,210
- Employer Nomination Scheme (186): $4,770 → $4,910
- (Add-on costs scaled accordingly)
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
- Primary applicant: $1,600 → $2,000 (≈ +25%)
- Adult partner/dependant: $1,190 → $1,225
- Child dependant: $390 → $400
Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
- Main applicant: $2,235 → $2,300
- Adult dependent: $1,115 → $1,150
- Child dependant: $560 → $580
Working Holiday Maker
- All applicants: $650 → $670
New Zealand Citizen Family Visa (461)
- Primary applicant: $430 → $445
- Adult dependant: $220 → $225
- Child dependant: $105 → $110
Bridging Visa B
- Fee for travel while awaiting a decision: $185 → $190
Key Impacts
- Student visas saw the most dramatic jump, with fees up by about 25%.
- Partner and skilled visas each increased by around 3–4%.
- These adjustments align with broader reforms aimed at managing migration, especially international students, whose numbers have continued to rise.
What You Should Know
- Lodge by 30 June 2025 to lock in current (lower) fees.
- Any applications submitted from July 1, 2025, onwards must include the updated fees.
- Include the higher costs in your budget and planning.
- Consider seeking assistance from a registered migration agent brisbane, especially for complex cases where mistakes could result in costly consequences.
Bottom Line
Australia\’s annual visa fee adjustments took effect on 1 July 2025, with most visas seeing a 3–4% increase and student visas bearing one of the sharpest rises at 25%. Planning is crucial: apply before the cut-off or ensure your budget covers the new fees. Professional guidance can help streamline the process and improve the success of your application.
