Visa costs explained
Understand the difference between Home Affairs charges and professional migration fees.
Overview
What this guide covers
Visa costs include government application charges, health examinations, police certificates, skills assessments, English tests, and translations.
Professional fees for registered migration advice are separate and should be agreed in writing before work begins.
Total cost depends on visa type, family members included, and individual circumstances.
Audience
Who this guide is for
Applicants budgeting for a visa pathway
Employers costing sponsorship
Students planning study and visa expenses
Key information
At a glance
Home Affairs visa application charges (VAC) are set by government and payable at lodgement in most cases
Second instalment charges may apply for some family visas
Skills assessments, health checks, and biometrics add to total cost
Consultation fees are fixed and published; case fees are quoted after assessment
Cheapest is not always best — incomplete self-lodged applications can cost more long-term
Government charges
Check the current Home Affairs pricing table for your visa subclass. Additional applicant charges apply for family members included in the application.
Some visas have subsequent charges or sponsorship fees — confirm the full fee schedule before lodgement.
Professional fees
Registered agents charge for consultations and case work. Consultation fees cover assessment and advice; case fees cover preparation and lodgement.
We quote case fees in writing after understanding your matter. No application work begins until you agree.
Avoid delays
Common mistakes
Issues we see often — and how structured preparation helps avoid them.
Budgeting only for the visa application charge
Health, police checks, assessments, and translations often add significant cost.
Assuming refunds if refused
Government charges are generally non-refundable. Understand fee policy before paying.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Services
Related visa services
Continue reading
Related resources
- Fees & consultations
Published consultation fees
- Our process
Step-by-step from consultation to lodgement
Want a clear fee picture?
Book a consultation — you'll know professional fees before any application work begins.