When planning to work and live in Australia permanently, one of the first questions you might ask is: What is the skilled visa Australia cost?
The total amount varies depending on the visa subclass, number of applicants, and your personal circumstances.
Generally, the cost includes the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) application fee, health examinations, English language tests, skills assessments, and additional charges for dependents.
For example, the DHA application fee for a primary applicant under the Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa typically ranges between AUD 4,000 and AUD 5,000.
Secondary applicants, such as partners or dependents, have separate charges that can add to the overall budget.
Key takeaway: Understanding all components of the skilled visa Australia cost early helps you plan your finances effectively and avoid unexpected expenses later.
Government Fees and Charges
The largest portion of your expenses will come from the official visa application charges set by the Department of Home Affairs.
These fees are paid when you lodge your visa and are non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.
The primary applicant fee for most skilled visas is around AUD 4,640. For an adult dependent, the cost is approximately AUD 2,320, while a child dependent costs about AUD 1,160.
There may also be a second instalment charge if a dependent aged 18 or older does not meet the functional English requirement, which can add AUD 4,890 per applicant.
Key takeaway: Government fees form the core of your skilled visa Australia cost, so ensure you check the latest rates before submitting your application.
Skills Assessment and English Test Costs
Before you can apply for a skilled visa, you need a positive skills assessment from a recognised authority for your nominated occupation.
This assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. The cost can vary widely depending on the assessing body, typically ranging between AUD 300 and AUD 1,200.
In addition, you must demonstrate English proficiency through approved tests such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
These exams cost between AUD 350 and AUD 410 per attempt. If you need to retake the test to achieve a higher score, this can further increase your total expenses.
Key takeaway: Plan for both the skills assessment and English test costs, as these are mandatory steps before lodging your skilled visa application.
Read also: Understanding Skill Assessment in Australia: What You Need To Know
Health Examinations and Police Checks
As part of your application, you and your dependents must undergo medical examinations by approved panel physicians.
The medical costs depend on your location and health provider, typically ranging between AUD 300 and AUD 500 per person.
Police checks are also required from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. These checks can cost between AUD 50 and AUD 100 per certificate.
Key takeaway: Don’t overlook the smaller but necessary expenses like health exams and police checks, as they contribute to your total skilled visa Australia cost.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Beyond the core costs, there are other expenses you might encounter. These include document translation fees, postage and courier services, and professional consultation or migration agent fees.
Using a registered migration agent can simplify the process but typically costs between AUD 2,000 and AUD 5,000, depending on the complexity of your case.
You should also consider settlement costs once your visa is granted, such as travel, temporary accommodation, and initial living expenses in Australia.
Key takeaway: Factoring in additional and post-visa expenses ensures you have a realistic budget and a smoother transition to life in Australia.
Planning Ahead: Making Sense of the Skilled Visa Australia Cost
Applying for a skilled visa is a major step toward building your future in Australia, but it requires thoughtful financial planning.
The total skilled visa Australia cost can exceed AUD 10,000 when you include all associated fees and personal expenses.
By understanding each component early, you can budget effectively, gather your documents on time, and approach your application with confidence.
Key takeaway: A clear financial plan is the key to managing the skilled visa Australia cost and ensuring a successful migration journey.
Want Expert Help Managing Your Skilled Visa Australia Cost?
Are you wondering how to make your Australian skilled visa process smoother and more cost-effective?
At Unique Education and Migration, we provide expert guidance on everything from assessing your eligibility to preparing your documents and budgeting your skilled visa Australia cost.
Our experienced migration consultants understand every step of the process and will help you make informed decisions.
Contact us today to get personalised advice and take the next confident step toward your Australian dream.
