Skilled migration to Australia is a dream for many, offering a chance to build a fulfilling career and an exceptional life. However, before diving headfirst into the application process, understanding the associated costs requires careful consideration.
Understanding these costs upfront empowers you to make informed decisions and embark on your Australian journey with confidence. Also, do not forget about the additional cost. There are a few additional costs you need to consider to paint a clear picture of the total expenses involved.
In this blog, we have provided a breakdown of all the costs associated with Australian Skilled Visas subclasses to ensure you are fully prepared to chase your dream.
How much is the Skilled Visa Application Costs in Australia 2024?
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are invited to apply by the Australian government based on their points score and nominated occupation from the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). It does not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member.
Both Point Test and Hon Kong Stream
| Application Cost | AUD 4,765.00 |
| Additional Cost for 18 and over | AUD 2,385.00 |
| Additional Cost for under 18 | AUD 1,195.00 |
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Subclass 190 visa caters to skilled workers with occupations on a specific state or territory’s skilled occupation list. You will need a nomination from that state/territory government to apply.
| Application Cost | AUD 4,770.00 |
| Additional Cost for 18 and over | AUD 2,385.00 |
| Additional Cost for under 18 | AUD 1,190.00 |
Skilled Regional Permanent Residence Visa (Subclass 191)
Subclass 191 visa is designed to encourage skilled workers to settle in regional areas of Australia. It is a permanent visa for individuals who have previously held certain eligible visas and have lived, worked, and studied in designated regional areas.
| Regional Provisional Stream | Hong Kong Stream | |
| Application Cost | AUD 490.00 | AUD 4,765.00 |
| Additional Cost for 18 and over | AUD 245.00 | AUD 2,380.00 |
| Additional Cost for under 18 | AUD 125.00 | AUD 1,195.00 |
Also Read: Australian Skilled Immigration Points Requirements
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Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa (Subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa designed to address labour shortages in regional Australia. In order to qualify, you must be sponsored by a qualifying family member who lives in a defined regional area or nominated by a state or territory government.
| Application Cost | AUD 4,770.00 |
| Additional Cost for 18 and over | AUD 2,385.00 |
| Additional Cost for under 18 | AUD 1,190.00 |
Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 887)
The Subclass 887 visa is for individuals who have lived and worked in specified regional areas of Australia on a previously eligible visa such as (Subclass 489, 495, 496 or 487). Applicants must meet certain residency and employment requirements to be eligible for this visa.
| Application Cost | AUD 490.00 |
| Additional Cost for 18 and over | AUD 245.00 |
| Additional Cost for under 18 | AUD 125.00 |
Note: If you are over 18 when you apply, and you are assessed as not having functional English, you will need to pay a second instalment. For Subclass 189, 190, and 191 visas, the second instalment is AUD 4,885. For Subclass 491, and 887 visas, it is AUD 4,890.
Also Read: What is the average processing time for skilled migration visa application?
What happens if I don’t pay the full application charge?
If you do not pay the correct application fee, the Australian Government will not consider your application. Partial payments will put your application on hold until the complete amount is received. This delay will impact your eligibility for the visa itself, and visa fees can even increase during this waiting period, potentially requiring a higher payment later.
Is the visa application fee refundable in Australia?
The visa application fees are generally non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome (approval, refusal, or withdrawal).
Visa application fee refund might be possible if:
- Your application was not actually needed when you submitted it.
- The government agency reviewing your application made a mistake.
- Unfortunately, if the applicant passes away.
- The sponsorship or nomination you relied on gets rejected.
- You made a mistake on your application and withdrew it in writing before a decision was made.
Also Read: What is Australian immigration point system? How it impacts migration?
Additional Costs Skilled Visa
The additional costs you’ll encounter beyond the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) application fee can be broken down into a few categories:
- Skills Assessment Fees: These are mandatory for most visa subclasses and are paid to the relevant skills assessment authority in Australia. The fee varies depending on your occupation and the assessment authority assessing your skills.
- Medical Examinations: You and your dependent (if applicable) will need to undergo medical examinations by a doctor approved for Australian visa purposes. The cost varies depending on the location and the clinic.
- Police Clearances: You and any dependent over the age of 18 will likely need to provide police clearances from all countries you’ve lived in for more than 12 months in the past ten years. The fees for police clearances vary depending on the country.
Conclusion
The cost of applying for a skilled visa in Australia can vary depending on the specific subclass you choose and the number of family members or a partner included in your application. While the base application charge can be significant, additional costs vary. Remember, the visa fee is just one factor to consider. Carefully researching the eligibility requirements, nomination options (if applicable), and regional considerations is crucial.
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