Australia Visa Fees Increased from 1 July 2026: Here’s What You Need to Know

If you are planning to study, travel, train, or work in Australia, there is an important update you should be aware of. Starting 1 July 2026, the Australian Government has increased visa application charges for several popular visa categories.

This change means applicants need to prepare a higher budget when planning their Australia journey, whether it is for education, tourism, working holiday, or post-study opportunities.

Below is a summary of the updated visa application fees and what they may mean for your plans.

New Australia Visa Fees Effective 1 July 2026

The following visa application charges apply to applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026:

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

New fee: AUD 2,500

This visa is for international students who want to undertake full-time study in Australia, including school, vocational training, English courses, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs.

With the Student Visa application fee now at AUD 2,500, prospective students should factor this into their overall study budget in addition to:

• Tuition fees

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• living expenses

• medical check-up fees

• document translation or certification fees, if needed

For students planning to study in Australia, it is more important than ever to budget carefully from the beginning of the application process.

2. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 / 462)

New fee: AUD 840

The Working Holiday Visa allows eligible young adults to travel around Australia while working temporarily to help fund their trip.

This visa remains a popular option for those who want to:

• Experience life in Australia

• Travel for an extended period

• Gain international work exposure

• Improve English skills while living abroad

With the updated application fee of AUD 840, applicants should also remember to budget for travel costs, health insurance if applicable, and proof of sufficient funds for the start of their stay.

3. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Offshore

New fee: AUD 250

The Visitor Visa is suitable for those who want to visit Australia for:

• Tourism

• Visiting family or friends

• Short business-related visits

For offshore applicants, the visa application fee is now AUD 250.

Although this is still one of the more affordable Australian visa categories, travellers should keep in mind that the visa application fee is only one part of the overall travel budget. Flights, accommodation, travel insurance, and daily expenses should also be considered when preparing for the trip.

4. Training Visa (Subclass 407)

New fee: AUD 535

The Training Visa is designed for applicants who wish to participate in workplace-based occupational training or professional development activities in Australia.

This visa may be suitable for those who want to:

• Improve skills in their current occupation

• Complete structured workplace training

• Participate in professional development programs

With the application fee now at AUD 535, applicants and sponsors should ensure they understand not only the visa costs, but also the training arrangements and supporting documentation required for a successful application.

5. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

New fee: AUD 5,750

One of the most significant increases is seen in the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which now carries a visa application charge of AUD 5,750.

This visa is commonly used by international students who have completed eligible studies in Australia and want to remain in the country temporarily to gain work experience after graduation.

Because the fee is now substantially higher, graduates should plan their next steps carefully and consider:

• Whether they meet all eligibility requirements

• When they intend to lodge their application

• The total cost of post-study migration planning

• Whether alternative pathways may be more suitable depending on their long-term goals

This fee increase makes early planning even more important for students hoping to stay in Australia after completing their studies.

Why This Update Matters

Visa application fees are a major part of the cost of moving abroad, especially for students and young travellers who are often already managing tuition fees, accommodation, insurance, and living expenses.

With these new charges now in effect, applicants should:

• Review their budget as early as possible

• Confirm which visa category best suits their purpose

• Prepare documents ahead of time to avoid delays

• Avoid last-minute applications without understanding the full cost involved

For some applicants, choosing the right pathway from the beginning can help avoid unnecessary expenses and reduce the risk of lodging the wrong visa type.

Who Is Affected by the New Fees?

These updated visa charges apply to applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026. This means:

• if your visa application was lodged before 1 July 2026, the previous fee structure may apply

• if your application is lodged on or after 1 July 2026, the new fee will apply

Because visa rules and costs can change, it is always a good idea to check your timing carefully before submitting your application.

Planning to Study, Visit, or Work in Australia?

Whether you are preparing for your study abroad journey, considering a working holiday, or planning your post-study visa pathway, understanding the latest visa costs is an important first step.

Choosing the right visa is not only about eligibility — it is also about making sure your financial planning matches your goals.

If you are still unsure which Australian visa is right for you, or if you want help mapping out your study and migration pathway, feel free to reach out to our team. We can help you understand your options and prepare for your Australia journey with better planning and clearer direction.

Need help with your Australia visa or study plan? Contact us to discuss your options.

Important note: Visa application charges can change at any time according to Australian Government policy. Applicants should always prepare carefully and ensure they are referring to the latest applicable charges at the time of lodgement. Visa application fees are non-refundable regardless of the visa result.