From 1 March 2026, the Australian Government has significantly increased the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), doubling fees for most applicants.
The changes were introduced under the Migration Amendment (Temporary Graduate Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2026 and apply to all new applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026. Applications submitted before this date are not affected.
100% Fee Increase
For many international graduates, this represents a 100% increase in visa costs.
Who Is Affected by the Subclass 485 Visa Fee Increase?
Affected Applicants
- Most primary Subclass 485 applicants
- Secondary applicants (partners and dependent children)
- Subsequent Subclass 485 applicants
- Graduates using the 485 visa as a pathway to skilled migration or employer sponsorship
For non-eligible passport holders, the primary visa application charge has doubled across most categories.
Subclass 485 Visa Fee Exempt Countries
Primary applicants holding a valid passport from the following countries remain exempt from the fee increase and continue paying pre-March 2026 rates:
If you hold a passport from one of these countries, the increased VAC does not apply to you as a primary applicant.
New Subclass 485 Visa Fees from 1 March 2026
The Subclass 485 visa application charge is now structured into four tiers based on whether the applicant is a subsequent applicant and whether the primary applicant holds an eligible passport.
Subsequent Subclass 485 – Eligible Passport Holders (No Increase)
| Applicant Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $905 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | $455 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $230 |
Subsequent Subclass 485 – Non-Eligible Passport Holders (100% Increase)
| Applicant Type | New Fee | Previous Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $1,810 | $905 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | $910 | $455 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $460 | $230 |
Other Subclass 485 Applicants – Eligible Passport Holders (No Increase)
| Applicant Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $2,300 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | $1,150 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $580 |
Other Subclass 485 Applicants – Non-Eligible Passport Holders (100% Increase)
| Applicant Type | New Fee | Previous Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $4,600 | $2,300 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | $2,300 | $1,150 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $1,160 | $580 |
What This Means for International Graduates in Australia
The Subclass 485 visa is a key post-study work visa for international students. With application charges now doubled for most applicants, careful planning is critical.
Impact Areas
This fee increase impacts:
- Graduates relying on the 485 visa as a pathway to skilled migration
- Applicants planning employer-sponsored visas
- Graduates needing additional time in Australia to gain skilled work experience
- Families lodging combined applications
Key Considerations
- Lodging before future fee changes
- Confirming passport eligibility
- Budgeting for significantly higher upfront visa costs
- Strategic migration pathway planning
Are Applications Lodged Before 1 March 2026 Affected?
No. The increased Visa Application Charge applies only to applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026. If your Subclass 485 visa was lodged before this date, previous fees apply.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Migration laws are complex and subject to change. Always consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for the latest information.