Australian Visa Fees Have Gone Up From 1 July 2026: What Students Need to Know

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. 

If you're planning to study in Australia, extend your stay, or move onto a post-study pathway, here's a plain-English summary of what's changed and what it means for you. 

The Student visa (subclass 500) application fee has increased from AUD $2,000 to AUD $2,500 for most applicants.

If you're applying to study an ELICOS (English language) or non-award course, you'll now pay a separate fee of AUD $2,050.

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) application fee has increased from AUD $4,600 to AUD $5,750 for most graduates.

This is the second increase to the 485 visa fee this year, making it more important than ever to plan your application carefully.

Figures shown are for the primary applicant. Additional family members are charged separately, so a family application will cost more than the amounts above. 

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. 

• 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. 

We understand these changes can feel overwhelming, especially when you've already invested so much into studying in Australia.

While you can't control visa fees, you can reduce the risk of costly mistakes by preparing a complete application, making sure your Genuine Student evidence is strong, and choosing the right visa pathway for your goals.

Every student's situation is different. You may also have migration options you haven't considered, depending on your qualifications, occupation, study location or plans.

Need personalised guidance? Speak with an IDP counsellor. If migration advice is needed, we'll connect you with our registered migration experts to help you plan your next steps with confidence.

This article is general information only and current as at 1 July 2026. Visa Application Charges change regularly and your exact fee depends on your visa subclass and circumstances, including charges for additional applicants. Always confirm the current charge with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent before you apply.

When did the Australian visa fee increases take effect?

The new Visa Application Charges took effect on 1 July 2026. The article notes that most visa subclasses now cost more to apply for from this date.

How much is the Student visa fee from 1 July 2026?

From 1 July 2026, the standard Student visa (subclass 500) application charge increased from AUD $2,000 to AUD $2,500 for the primary applicant.

Is there a separate visa fee for ELICOS students?

Yes. A separate lower pricing tier has been introduced for ELICOS and non-award courses, set at AUD $2,050 from 1 July 2026.

How much is the Temporary Graduate visa fee now?

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) application charge has increased from AUD $4,600 to approximately AUD $5,750.

Do the new visa fees apply if I already lodged my application?

No. If you already lodged your visa application before the increase, the new charges do not apply to you. The charge is set on the day you lodge.

Do family members pay extra visa charges?

Yes. The figures listed in the article are for the primary applicant. Additional family members are charged separately, so a family application will cost more.

What other costs changed from 1 July 2026?

The article notes that the Core Skills threshold increased from AUD $76,515 to AUD $79,423, and Administrative Review Tribunal fees increased to AUD $3,727 for reviews of migration decisions.

What should I do before lodging my visa application?

Before lodging, check your exact visa charge, timing, course type and pathway. The article notes that these factors can affect what you pay and your chances of success.