Australia’s Department of Home Affairs raised visa application fees across multiple categories effective July 1, 2026. The increases affect international students, temporary graduates, skilled workers, partner and family visa applicants, and permanent residents holding a Resident Return visa. Several categories saw fee hikes of 25%, while others rose by nearly 300%.
Australia Visa Fee Hike: What Changed on July 1, 2026
The following table summarises the key fee changes confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs:
| Visa Category | Old Fee (AUD) | New Fee (AUD) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student visa – Subclass 500 | 2,000 | 2,500 | 25% |
| ELICOS student visa – Subclass 500 | 2,000 | 2,050 | — |
| Temporary Graduate – Subclass 485 | 4,600 | 5,750 | 25% |
| Partner visa | 9,365 | 11,710 | AUD 2,345 |
| Subclass 461 (NZ family) | 445 | 1,330 | ~200% |
| Bridging visa B | 190 | 575 | ~200% |
| Resident Return visa | 490 | 1,475 | ~200% |
| Skilled Independent – Subclass 189 | 4,910 | 6,135 | 25% |
| Subclass 482 (skilled worker) | 3,210 | 4,015 | 25% |
(Reference exchange rate: 1 AUD ≈ ₹66, as stated in the source data.)
For Indian passport holders applying for the student visa (subclass 500), the fee in rupee terms has risen from approximately ₹1,32,000 to approximately ₹1,65,000 — an increase of around ₹33,000. This is the base application charge only; additional charges may apply depending on the number of applicants.
Use our Visa Fee Calculator to estimate the total cost of your Australia visa application, including any additional applicant charges.
Impact on Skilled Workers, Families, and Permanent Residents in Australia
Skilled migration applicants face a straight 25% rise. The Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) fee moves from AUD 4,910 to AUD 6,135, and the Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) fee rises from AUD 3,210 to AUD 4,015.
The Bridging visa B increase is particularly notable for applicants already inside Australia who need to travel during an ongoing visa application. Holders previously paid AUD 190; they now pay AUD 575.
Permanent residents whose travel facility has lapsed and who need a Resident Return visa will now pay AUD 1,475 instead of AUD 490 — a sharp cost for those with existing Australian permanent residency.
The subclass 461 visa, issued to family members of New Zealand citizens who want to live and work in Australia for five years, has tripled in price from AUD 445 to AUD 1,330.
The subclass 500 visa permits a stay of up to six years and allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight when the course is in session. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) permits international graduates to live, study, and work in Australia after completing their studies.
For a full overview of application requirements, documents, and the visa process, refer to our Australia Visa Guide and check what documents you need with our Document Checklist.
Source: Department of Home Affairs, Australia
FAQ
How much does the Australia student visa (subclass 500) cost after July 1, 2026?
The primary applicant fee for the subclass 500 student visa increased from AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500, which works out to approximately ₹1,65,000 at the current exchange rate.
Did the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) fee also increase?
Yes. The Temporary Graduate visa fee rose from AUD 4,600 to AUD 5,750, a 25% increase, effective July 1, 2026.
Which visa category saw the largest percentage fee increase?
The Bridging visa B and the Resident Return visa both saw increases of approximately 200%. The subclass 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa also saw a large jump, from AUD 445 to AUD 1,330.
How much does the Australia partner visa cost now?
Partner visa applicants now pay AUD 11,710, up from AUD 9,365, an increase of AUD 2,345.
Are there any charges beyond the base application fee for Indian students?
Yes. In addition to the base application charge, an Additional Applicant Charge and a Subsequent Temporary Application Charge may also apply depending on individual circumstances.
Where can I check current Australia visa fees?
Fees are listed on the official Department of Home Affairs website. You can also use our Visa Fee Calculator to plan your total visa costs.