A new financial year has arrived, and with it the Australian Government’s annual update to Visa Application Charges (VAC). From today, 1 July 2026, most visa subclasses cost more to apply for — and a few student-related visas have risen well beyond the usual inflation adjustment.
The headline change
The Student visa (subclass 500) application charge has increased from $2,000 to $2,500 for the primary applicant. For the first time, the Government has also introduced a separate, lower pricing tier for ELICOS (English language) and non-award courses, set at $2,050 — recognising the shorter, standalone nature of these programs.
Post-study plans are also affected. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) — the visa many students move to after finishing their course — has risen again, to approximately $5,750. That’s a significant jump from $4,600, and it follows an earlier increase during the year.
The bigger picture: charges are up across the board
Australian Visa Fees 2026 Updates
| Visa type | Before 1 Jul 2026 | From 1 Jul 2026 |
| Student visa (subclass 500) – standard | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Student visa (subclass 500) – ELICOS / non-award (new tier) | $2,000 | $2,050 |
| Student Guardian visa (subclass 590) | $2,000 | $2,050 |
| Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) | $4,600 | $5,750 |
| Visitor visa (subclass 600) – Tourist, offshore | $200 | $250 |
| Visitor visa (subclass 600) – onshore | $500 | $500 (unchanged) |
| Bridging visa B (BVB) | $190 | $575 |
| Skills in Demand (subclass 482) | $3,210 | $4,015 |
| General Skilled Migration (189 / 190 / 491 / 494) | $4,910 | $6,135 |
| Employer Nomination / RSMS (186 / 187) | $4,910 | $6,140 |
| Partner visa (300 / 820-801 / 309-100) | $9,365 | $11,710 |
Figures shown are for the primary applicant. Additional family members are charged separately, so a family application will cost more than the amounts above.
It’s not just application fees
A few related thresholds and fees also moved on 1 July 2026, which can matter if you’re heading toward skilled or employer-sponsored pathways, or considering a review of a decision:
- The Core Skills rose from $76,515 to $79,423 — relevant to sponsored work visas.
- Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) fees increased to $3,727 for reviews of migration decisions.
What this means for you
- If you’ve already lodged your application, these increases don’t apply to you — the charge is set on the day you lodge.
- If you’re about to apply, budget for the new amount, plus separate charges for any family members included in your application.
- Timing matters. The right lodgement date, course type and visa pathway can make a real difference to what you pay and your chances of success.
The safest move is to check your exact charge and pathway before you lodge.
