The exact fee for an Australian visa is not a single amount; it varies significantly depending on the type of visa you are applying for, your circumstances, and sometimes your location. These fees are officially known as Visa Application Charges (VACs).
Understanding Australian Visa Application Charges (VACs)
Australia offers a wide range of visas, from tourist and student visas to skilled migration and family visas, each with its own associated costs. The base application charge is just one component; additional charges may apply for secondary applicants, certain health checks, or police clearances.
Here's a general overview of common Australian visa fees, subject to change:
| Visa Type | Subclass | Base Application Charge (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa | 600 | From AUD 190 | For tourism, visiting family, or short-term business visits. |
| Working Holiday Visa | 417 / 462 | From AUD 650 | For young adults wanting to holiday and work in Australia for up to 12 months. |
| Student Visa | 500 | From AUD 1,600 (from Jul 1, 2024) | For international students enrolling in a full-time course. |
| Temporary Graduate Visa | 485 | From AUD 1,895 | Allows international students to stay and work in Australia temporarily after graduation. |
| Skilled Independent Visa | 189 | From AUD 4,640 | For invited skilled workers who want to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. |
| Partner (Provisional and Migrant) Visa | 309/100 or 820/801 | From AUD 8,850 | For partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. |
Please note: These figures are indicative and were current at the time of writing. Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date fees.
Key Changes for International Student Visas (Effective July 1, 2024)
A significant change in visa fees specifically affects international students. The Australian government has substantially increased its international student visa fees:
- Prior to July 1, 2024: The fee was AUD 710 (approximately Rs 38,930).
- Effective July 1, 2024: The fee has increased to AUD 1,600 (approximately Rs 87,731).
This represents a hike of over 125% and has been a point of concern for governments, including India.
Factors Affecting Your Visa Fee
Several factors can influence the total cost of your Australian visa application:
- Visa Stream: Different streams within a visa category might have varying fees (e.g., different streams of the Visitor Visa).
- Additional Applicants: If you include family members (spouse, children) in your application, an additional fee is charged for each secondary applicant.
- Subsequent Temporary Application Charge (STAC): Some temporary visas may incur an additional charge if you have previously held certain temporary visas while in Australia.
- Other Costs: Beyond the VAC, you might incur expenses for:
- Health examinations (e.g., chest X-rays, medical assessments).
- Police clearance certificates from various countries.
- Translation services for documents not in English.
- Migration agent fees (if you choose to use one).
How to Find the Exact Fee for Your Visa
The most accurate way to determine your specific visa application charge is to use the official Department of Home Affairs website.
Here's how you can typically find the fee:
- Identify your visa type: Use the "Visa Finder" tool or browse the visa list.
- Navigate to the specific visa page: Each visa page provides detailed information, including the application charge.
- Check the "Costs" or "Visa application charges" section: This will outline the base fee and any additional charges for family members.
Visa & Immigration
