The Australian Government has significantly increased the application fee for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), effective 1 March 2026.
The base visa application charge has doubled from AUD $2,300 to AUD $4,600 for the primary applicant a 100 % increase. This change applies to all new applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026.
🧑🎓 What This Means for International Graduates
The Temporary Graduate (485) visa allows eligible international students to remain in Australia after completing their studies to live and work temporarily. It is an important post-study pathway and supports work experience and skill development.
However, with the fee now at AUD 4,600, the cost of pursuing this option has increased sharply, and dependent charges have risen proportionally as well.
📌 Key Points
- New 485 visa fee (from 1 March 2026): AUD 4,600
- The increase is part of broader regulatory changes affecting student and graduate visas.
- Costs for partners and dependants are also higher when included in the application.
- Applicants lodging before 1 March 2026 will be assessed under the previous fee structure (if lodged in time).
📉 What You Should Consider
Because this visa represents a significant financial commitment, international graduates should:
- Review eligibility and supporting evidence before lodging
- Lodge early if timing is close to your current visa expiry
- Consider whether alternative pathways, such as employer-sponsored or skilled visas, may be more advantageous
📍 Impact on International Students and Graduates
Industry discussions suggest this fee increase is part of broader migration policy tightening, reflecting efforts to manage post-study work pathways and integrity of temporary visas.
This change may influence decisions for students planning to stay and work in Australia after graduation.
The fee increase affects all new 485 visa applications from 1 March 2026. If you are planning to apply for your Subclass 485 visa — or considering next steps after study our Perth based team can assess your situation and advise the best strategy moving forward.
👉 Book a consultation today for tailored guidance and planning.particularly for those on a tighter budget.
