Government doubles Temporary Graduate visa charge
Australia Doubles Temporary Graduate Visa Fee
The cost to apply for the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa in Australia has doubled, skyrocketing from AUD $2,300 to AUD $4,600 for the primary applicant from 1st March 2026. This dramatic increase marks the steepest single rise ever for this post‑study work visa and comes with major implications for international graduates hoping to live and work in Australia after completing their studies.
What is Temporary Graduate Visa(Subclass 485):
The Subclass 485 visa is a post‑study work visa designed to allow eligible international students to remain in Australia temporarily after graduation to gain valuable work experience and build their careers. Although, it offers full work rights, now it comes with a much heavier price tag. The price for this visa has been doubled by Australian goverment.
Major Fee Hike
All new applications for the Subclass 485 visa will require applicants to pay AUD $4,600 and this has been effictive from March 1. This is double the previous fee, reflecting a 100% increase. Previously, the visa had been increased in smaller increments:
- 1 February 2025: $1,945 → $2,235
- 1 July 2025: $2,235 → $2,300
This sudden doubling is part of broader migration fee adjustments under the Migration (Fees) Regulation 2024, aimed at managing visa processing costs and the growing number of international student applications.
The higher fee applies to:
- Primary applicant: $4,600
- Secondary applicant 18+: $2,300
- Secondary applicant under 18: $1,160
While the increase may be justified by administrative and processing costs, it poses a financial burden for many recent graduates and families relying on this visa for post-study work opportunities.
Backlash from Students and Critics
Many international student community and advocacy groups have criticized the fee hike, describing it as sudden and burdensome. Many argue that doubling the fee without warning undermines Australia’s reputation as a competitive study destination, especially given the country’s ongoing competition with Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. Some have even compared the sudden hike to being treated like “ATMs” by the Australian migration system especially because it comes shortly after other visa charge increases and without significant warning.
Student unions have warned that higher costs may:
- Discourage students from applying for the post study work visa.
- Push graduates to return home immediately after finishing studies.
- Impact Australia’s international education market, which is a multi-billion dollar sector
Additionally, student groups highlight that visa processing delays, combined with higher fees, may make it increasingly difficult for graduates to take full advantage of their poststudy work opportunities.
Broader View of Visa Fee Pressures
This increase adds to previous adjustments in Australian migration fees, reflecting a government strategy to manage demand and cover administrative costs. Combined with the student visa application fee increase to $2,000 in July 2025, these changes have raised concerns about affordability for international students, many of whom are already facing economic challenges due to inflation and currency fluctuations. Instead of reducing existing pressure, it has created more stress amoung the students.
Migration experts warn that while the fee increase may help manage government revenue and processing resources, it could reduce Australia’s appeal as a study and post-study work destination, particularly for students from Asia and the Pacific region.
Who Is Exempt From the Increase?
The fee increase does not apply to citizens of Pacific Island countries and Timor Leste, who continue to benefit from concessional visa charges. This exemption aims to support regional cooperation and maintain access to Australia’s education and post study work programs for nearby nations.
Applicants from these countries still pay the previous lower fee, giving them a comparative advantage in affordability.
What This Means for Graduates
The doubling of the Subclass 485 visa fee has several implications for graduates. The sudden increase in the visa fee has left many graduates questioning their plans to stay in Australia. Here are some potential consequences of this change for post study graduates:
Higher cost of living and planning: Graduates need to budget significantly more for visa applications, which could affect their ability to pursue post-study employment or settle in Australia.
Budget strain: Families supporting students may find the increased fees financially challenging, potentially delaying or canceling post-study plans.
Reduced competitiveness: Australia’s attractiveness as a post-study work destination may decrease, as other countries offer more affordable post-graduation pathways.
Strategic decisions: Graduates may now need to consider alternative migration options or adjust plans to reduce costs, such as applying for employer-sponsored visas or skilled migration pathways.
Tips for Prospective Applicants
If you plan to apply for the Subclass 485 visa:
Budget early: Ensure you have funds ready for the $4,600 application fee.
Consider timing: Submit your application promptly to avoid further increases in case fees rise again in the future.
Professional advice: Seek guidance from registered migration agents or lawyers to ensure the application is strong and avoid delays.
Explore alternatives: If cost is a barrier, look at other visa pathways that could allow post-study work in Australia.
FAQs
Q1. Is the 485 visa fee increased?
Yes. From 1 March, the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa application fee has doubled, increasing from $2,300 to $4,600 for most applicants. This makes it one of the most expensive temporary visas in Australia.
Q2. Can you extend a Temporary Graduate visa?
In most cases, the Temporary Graduate visa cannot be extended once it expires. Limited extensions were previously available for certain qualifications and cohorts, but these have now largely ended.
Q3. How to extend your stay after a Graduate visa?
If your 485 visa is ending, you must apply for a different visa, such as a skilled visa, employer-sponsored visa, partner visa, or student visa, depending on your eligibility. You must lodge the new application before your 485 visa expires to remain lawfully in Australia.
Q4. How much does the Temporary Activity visa cost?
The base application charge for the Temporary Activity visa (Subclass 408) is currently $405 for the main applicant. Additional costs may apply depending on your stream and individual circumstances.
