The Australian Government has significantly increased the application charges for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), affecting international students planning to remain in Australia after completing their studies.
From 1 March 2026, the cost of lodging a Subclass 485 visa application more than doubled for many applicants, making careful migration planning more important than ever.
At Australian Migration Agents, we assist graduates across Australia with understanding the latest visa costs, eligibility requirements and long-term migration pathways connected to the 485 visa.
New 485 Visa Application Charges From 1 March 2026
The updated government visa application charges now apply to most Temporary Graduate visa applicants.
Primary Applicant Fee
The base application charge for the main applicant increased from:
- Previous fee: AUD $2,235
- New fee: AUD $4,600
This increase affects applicants across the Temporary Graduate visa streams, including:
- Post-Higher Education Work stream
- Post-Vocational Education Work stream
- Replacement stream applications where applicable
Secondary Applicant Fees
For family members included in the application:
For couples and families, total government charges can now exceed several thousand dollars before additional expenses are considered.
Why Did the 485 Visa Fee Increase?
The Government regularly reviews visa application charges as part of broader migration and budget policy settings.
The increase appears linked to several factors, including:
- Strong demand for Temporary Graduate visas
- Migration system reforms
- Administrative cost recovery
- Skilled migration planning changes
- Increased pressure on visa processing systems
Despite the higher costs, the Subclass 485 visa remains one of the most commonly used post-study migration pathways in Australia.
Additional Costs Beyond the Visa Application Fee
Applicants should also budget for several additional expenses associated with the 485 visa process.
Common extra costs may include:
- English language tests such as IELTS or PTE Academic
- Health examinations
- Police clearance certificates
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
- Biometrics appointments where required
- Skills assessments for eligible streams
- Document translation and certification costs
Depending on individual circumstances, the total cost of a 485 visa application can increase substantially beyond the government application charge alone.
Is the 485 Visa Still Worth It?
Although the application fee has increased significantly, the Temporary Graduate visa continues to provide important migration opportunities for international graduates.
Benefits of the 485 visa may include:
- Full work rights in Australia
- Opportunity to gain Australian work experience
- Access to skilled migration pathways
- Eligibility for employer sponsorship opportunities
- Additional time to improve English scores or migration points
- Pathway planning toward permanent residency
For many graduates, the ability to obtain Australian skilled work experience remains highly valuable for long-term migration goals.
How the 485 Visa Supports Permanent Residency Pathways
The Temporary Graduate visa is often used as a stepping stone toward permanent migration options.
Potential future pathways may include:
- Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491)
- Employer Sponsored visas
- State nomination programs
Strategic planning during the 485 visa period can significantly improve long-term migration outcomes.
Important considerations may include:
- Occupation selection
- Skills assessments
- Regional work opportunities
- English language scores
- State nomination eligibility
- Employer sponsorship potential
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Common Mistakes That Can Become Costly
With the increased visa application charges, mistakes during the application process can become even more expensive.
Common problems include:
- Choosing the wrong visa stream
- Submitting incomplete documentation
- Using expired English test results
- Failing to meet study requirements
- Incorrect health insurance arrangements
- Applying too late after course completion
- Not understanding eligibility criteria
Because visa application charges are generally non-refundable, applicants should ensure their eligibility is properly assessed before lodging.
Can You Avoid the New 485 Visa Fee?
Applicants who lodged a valid Subclass 485 application before the commencement date may have been assessed under the previous application charges.
However, applicants must satisfy all eligibility requirements at the time of lodgement for the earlier fee structure to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new 485 visa fee in 2026?
From 1 March 2026:
- Main applicant fee: AUD $4,600
- Secondary applicant (18+): AUD $2,300
- Secondary applicant (under 18): AUD $1,160
Does the fee increase affect permanent residency visas?
No. The increase specifically applies to the Temporary Graduate visa category. Permanent residency visa charges are separate.
Is the 485 visa still a pathway to PR?
Yes. The Subclass 485 visa remains an important pathway toward skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas for eligible applicants.
What happens if the 485 visa is refused?
Government visa application charges are generally non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Can family members still be included?
Yes. Eligible partners and dependent children can still be included in a 485 visa application, subject to the applicable additional charges.
Why Professional Migration Advice Matters
Given the increased financial commitment involved, obtaining accurate migration advice before lodging a 485 visa application is more important than ever.
At Australian Migration Agents, we assist graduates with:
- 485 visa eligibility assessments
- Application preparation and lodgement
- PR pathway planning
- Skills assessment guidance
- English test strategy
- Employer sponsorship planning
- State nomination advice
Professional migration support can help reduce the risk of refusal and ensure your application aligns with your long-term migration goals.
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Book a Consultation
If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Agents for a consultation.
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Speak With Australian Migration Agents
The Temporary Graduate visa remains one of the most important pathways for international students seeking to build their future in Australia.
Australian Migration Agents can help you understand the updated 485 visa costs, assess your eligibility and prepare a strong application strategy with confidence.
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