Australia 485 Visa Fee Increase 2026: New Application Charges, Cost Breakdown & What It Means for International Graduates 

Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) has long been a critical pathway for international students transitioning from study to skilled employment. However, from 1 March 2026, the 485 visa application charges have increased significantly, affecting thousands of graduates planning their post-study work pathway. 

If you are preparing to apply for the Subclass 485 visa, understanding the updated visa fees, total cost implications, and strategic next steps is now more important than ever. 

New 485 Visa Application Charges Effective 1 March 2026

The updated government visa application charges (VAC) for the Standard Category – Most Applicants are: 

Main Applicant Fee Increased to $4,600 

The base application charge for the primary applicant has increased from $2,235 to $4,600, representing more than a 100% increase. 

This change directly impacts international students applying for: 

• Post-Study Work stream 

• Graduate Work stream 

• Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) 

Secondary Applicant (18 Years and Over) Fee Increased to $2,300

For partners or dependents aged 18 and over, the application fee has increased from $1,115 to $2,300. 

Secondary Applicant (Under 18 Years) Fee Increased to $1,160

For dependent children under 18, the fee has increased from $560 to $1,160. 

Concessional fees may still apply for eligible passport holders from certain countries. 

Why Has the 485 Visa Application Fee Increased?

The Australian Government periodically reviews visa application charges as part of broader migration policy reforms. Recent updates reflect: 

• Strong demand for post-study work visas 

• Migration system restructuring 

• Skilled migration realignment 

• Administrative cost recovery measures 

The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) remains a high-demand visa category, particularly among graduates from Australia’s universities and vocational institutions. 

How the 485 Visa Fee Increase Impacts International Students

The increase in visa application charges affects: 

• Financial planning after graduation 

• Family-inclusive applications 

• PR pathway preparation 

• Visa timing strategy 

For a single applicant, the jump to $4,600 significantly raises the upfront cost. For couples or families, total government charges can now exceed $8,000–$10,000 depending on dependents. 

Total Cost of Applying for a 485 Visa in 2026

Beyond the base visa application charge, applicants should budget for additional costs including: 

• English language test (IELTS, PTE Academic, etc.) 

• Health examinations 

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or OVHC 

• Police clearance certificates 

• Skills assessment (if required under Graduate Work stream) 

• Biometrics (if applicable) 

When combined, the total cost of a 485 visa application in 2026 can range significantly depending on individual circumstances. 

Is the 485 Visa Still Worth It After the Fee Increase?

Despite the increased cost, the Temporary Graduate visa continues to provide: 

• Full work rights in Australia 

• Australian work experience opportunities 

• Pathway to Skilled Migration (Subclass 189, 190, 491) 

• Employer sponsorship possibilities 

• PR transition planning 

For many graduates, it remains the most important stepping stone toward Australian Permanent Residency (PR). 

The value of local work experience and migration points accumulation often outweighs the increased application charge. 

Common Mistakes That Can Now Cost You More

With visa fees rising, avoid: 

• Selecting the wrong stream (Post-Study Work vs Graduate Work) 

• Choosing an occupation not aligned with PR pathways 

• Missing English validity timelines 

• Lodging incomplete documentation 

• Incorrect health insurance arrangements 

• Failing to understand visa condition updates 

A refusal now means losing $4,600 or more in government charges. 

485 Visa and PR Pathways: Why Strategic Planning Matters

The Subclass 485 visa is not just a temporary visa. It is often the first structured step toward: 

• Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) 

• Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) 

• Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491) 

• Employer Sponsored visa pathways 

Choosing the right occupation, state nomination strategy, and English score can significantly influence your long-term migration outcome. 

How Aussizz Group Supports 485 Applicants

With over 200,000+ successful applicants supported in achieving their Australian dreams, Aussizz Group provides: 

• Registered Migration Agent guidance 

• Eligibility assessment 

• PR pathway mapping 

• Occupation analysis 

• Skills assessment support 

• English test planning strategy 

• End-to-end visa lodgement assistance 

When visa costs increase, expert guidance becomes even more valuable. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. What is the new 485 visa fee in 2026? 

From 1 March 2026, the base application charge for the main applicant is $4,600, secondary applicants aged 18 and over pay $2,300, and applicants under 18 pay $1,160. 

Q2. Why did the Australian Government increase the 485 visa fee? 

The increase aligns with broader migration system reforms, administrative cost recovery, and policy adjustments reflecting demand and operational requirements. 

Q3. Can I avoid the new 485 visa fee? 

If you lodge a valid application before the effective date of the increase, the previous visa application charge may apply. However, eligibility must be fully met at the time of application. 

Q4. Is the 485 visa still a pathway to PR after 2026? 

Yes. The Subclass 485 visa continues to provide a structured pathway toward skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas, depending on eligibility and occupation alignment. 

Q5. Does the 485 visa fee increase affect PR visa fees? 

No. The 485 visa fee increase applies specifically to the Temporary Graduate visa category. PR visa application charges are separate and subject to their own revisions. 

Q6. How much does a full 485 visa application cost including all expenses? 

Including visa application charge, English tests, medical exams, health insurance, and documentation, applicants should budget several thousand dollars beyond the base application charge. 

Q7. What happens if my 485 visa is refused? 

Government visa application charges are generally non-refundable if the visa is refused. This makes accuracy and professional guidance critical. 

Q8. Can I include my partner and children in my 485 application? 

Yes. Secondary applicants can be included, and the new application charges apply accordingly. 

Q9. Will this fee increase reduce 485 visa approvals? 

The fee increase does not change eligibility criteria or approval processes. Applications continue to be assessed based on legislative requirements. 

Final Thoughts 

The 485 visa fee increase in 2026 significantly raises the financial stakes for international graduates in Australia. However, the Temporary Graduate visa remains a powerful bridge between study and permanent residency. 

Now more than ever, careful planning, accurate documentation, and strategic migration advice are essential. 

If you are considering applying for the Subclass 485 visa, ensure your application is structured correctly, aligned with your long-term PR goals, and lodged with confidence. 

Your Australian journey deserves the right start. 

Book a consultation with Aussizz Group for an up to date 485 strategy