New Application Charges, Cost Breakdown & What It Means for International Graduates
From 1 March 2026, the Australian Government significantly increased the application charges for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). For international students planning their post-study career, this 100% fee jump represents a major change in migration budgeting.
New 485 Visa Application Charges (Effective 1 March 2026)
The government has doubled the base application fee. Here is the updated cost structure:
- Primary Applicant: Increased to AUD 4,600.
- Secondary Applicant (18+): Increased to AUD 2,300.
- Secondary Applicant (Under 18): Increased to AUD 1,160.
These fees are non-refundable, meaning that any error in your application can lead to a significant financial loss.
Is the 485 Visa Still Worth It After the Fee Increase?
Despite the fee increase, the 485 visa remains the primary bridge to Australian Permanent Residency (PR). It offers:
- Full work rights to gain essential Australian experience.
- A pathway to skilled migration points (Subclass 189, 190, 491).
- Time to secure employer sponsorship.
How to Avoid Costly Refusals
With the application fee now at $4,600, a visa refusal is not just a career setback – it is a significant financial loss. Government fees are non-refundable upon refusal. To protect your investment, you must avoid the common pitfalls that trigger rejections:
- Wrong Stream Selection: Confusion between the Post-Study Work and Graduate Work streams is a leading cause of issues.
- Incomplete Documentation: Automated systems now prioritize “decision-ready” applications. Missing documents, even minor ones, can lead to delays or rejections.
- Occupation Misalignment: Ensure your chosen occupation is aligned with your long-term PR goals.
- English Language Lapses: Ensure your test results are valid at the time of lodgment.
Strategic Planning: Beyond the 485 Visa
A successful 485 application is just the beginning. At Australian Visa Office, we don’t just lodge visas; we build migration roadmaps. We work with you to:
- Assess your current points score.
- Analyze the high-demand occupation lists for state nominations (190/491).
- Prepare “decision-ready” applications that minimize processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Does this fee affect other visa types? No, this increase is specific to the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) category.
Q2. What happens if my visa is refused? Government application fees are generally non-refundable. This is why professional auditing of your application is essential before lodgment.
Q3. Can I add my partner to the application? Yes, but secondary applicant fees apply. Our office can advise on the total cost breakdown for family-inclusive applications.
Australian Visa Office Supports 485 Applicants
With the stakes higher than ever, expert guidance is your best defense against unnecessary costs and delays.
If you manage the application yourself, you carry the full weight of any errors; with an agent, you have a professional partner whose reputation and license depend on your application’s integrity.
Registered Migration Agent Dejan (MARN 0601356) specializes in aligning 485 applications with long-term PR pathways, ensuring your application is lodged with the precision the new 2026 system demands.
Secure your future – let’s discuss your strategy today.
- WhatsApp: +61 423 334 431
- Email: info@australianvisaoffice.com.au