The immigration fees for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) visas, specifically for applications like the Skilled Independent (subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visas, begin at AUD 4,640 for the primary adult applicant. These fees are subject to change and vary depending on the number and age of accompanying applicants.
Australian PR Visa Application Fees (2023-2024)
When applying for Australian Permanent Residency through skilled migration pathways such as the Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas, the main component of the immigration cost is the visa application charge (VAC). These fees are paid to the Australian Department of Home Affairs at the time of application.
Here's a breakdown of the typical visa application fees:
| Applicant Type | Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Adult Applicant | 4,640 |
| Additional Adult Applicant (18+ years) | 2,320 |
| Dependent Child (below 18 years) | 1,160 |
These figures represent the base application fees for the current financial year (2023-2024) and are crucial for budgeting your immigration journey.
Understanding the Visa Application Charge
The Visa Application Charge (VAC) covers the cost of processing your visa application. It's important to note that these fees are non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful. Therefore, ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria before applying is essential.
For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, it is always recommended to consult the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website, as fees are subject to annual review and change.
Other Potential Costs
Beyond the primary visa application fee, prospective immigrants should also budget for various other expenses associated with the Australian PR process. These can include:
- Skills Assessment Fees: Required by designated assessing authorities to determine if your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.
- English Language Test Fees: Costs for tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, which are necessary to prove your English proficiency.
- Medical Examination Fees: All applicants must undergo health examinations with panel physicians.
- Police Clearance Certificates: Fees for obtaining criminal record checks from all countries you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Professional Migration Agent Fees: If you choose to use the services of a registered migration agent, their fees will be an additional cost.
- State or Territory Nomination Fees: Applicable for state-sponsored visas (e.g., subclass 190, 491) where some states or territories may charge a small non-refundable application fee.
By considering all these potential costs in addition to the core visa application charge, applicants can create a comprehensive financial plan for their move to Australia.
