Department of Home Affairs Fee Increases (Visa Application Charges) – Effective 1 July 2026

The Department of Home Affairs has implemented a significant update to Visa Application Charges (VACs) across a wide range of Australian visa subclasses.

These new fees apply to all applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026 and represent a notable increase across both temporary and permanent visa categories.

A summary of increases for the primary visa applicant fee are below.

Employer-Sponsored and Skilled Visas

• Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482):

$3,210 → $4,015

• Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186):

$4,910 → $6,140

• Skilled Independent (Subclass 189):

$4,910 → $6,135

• Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190):

$4,910 → $6,140

• Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491):

$4,910 → $6,140

Bridging Visa B

$190 → $575

Partner Visas

• Subclass 820/801 and 309/100:

$9,365 → $11,710

Resident Return Visas

• Subclass 155:

$475 → $1475

The above is not an exhaustive list of all visa application types, and the Department of Home Affairs have implemented a significant increase across all visa types.

How SCA Connect Can Assist

In light of these increased government charges, it is more important than ever to ensure that migration strategies are carefully planned and executed correctly from the outset.

SCA Connect supports both corporate and individual clients by providing:

• Strategic advice to select the right visa pathway and plan for long-term outcomes
• Risk and compliance management to minimise refusals, delays, and unnecessary costs
• Workforce solutions to help businesses navigate sponsorship costs and retain talent
• End-to-end support from eligibility through to application outcome

In a higher-cost environment, our focus is on delivering clear, practical advice that ensures the best possible outcome.

For further information and assistance, Book a consultation with one of experienced Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.