Roughly AUD $4,600 primary applicant
The main 485 application charge sits near $4,600 at time of writing. Check current fee at lodgement.
2024-2025 Reform · Now ~$4,600 · Pathway Planning Matters More
The 485 fee roughly doubled.
The Subclass 485 application charge jumped from around AUD $2,300 to approximately AUD $4,600 in 2024-2025. For graduates, this changes the cost-benefit equation on the post-study pathway. Here is what it means and how to plan.
What changed
Four fee implications.
The fee change affects budgeting, timing, and pathway choice.
Dependent fees also higher
Partner and child dependent fees adjusted upward too. Family 485 applications carry substantial combined cost.
Applied at lodgement
Fee payable at lodgement. Not refundable if application is refused.
No phased transition
The increase applied immediately. No grandfathering for applicants already in pipeline.
Planning implications
Four decisions are now sharper.
Higher fees tighten the logic on several planning decisions.
Stream choice matters morePSW vs Graduate Work stream: match to genuine pathway. Wrong stream wastes the fee. See PSW stream eligibility.
Timing within 6-month windowLodging too early without preparation risks refusal. Taking the full 6-month window to strengthen evidence often worth the patience.
Regional study payoff biggerRegional study enables second PSW stream. Extra post-study time for the same fee increases value.
Consider direct PR pathwaysFor some graduates, skipping 485 for direct 189 or 190 pathway is now more attractive. Depends on points position.
When 485 still makes sense
Three genuine scenarios.
Despite the higher fee, 485 remains the right pathway in many cases.
Need work experience for points
485 gives 2-4 years of Australian skilled work. Points gain for 189/190 often substantial.
Seeking sponsor during 485
485 work rights enable sponsor search. Employer sponsorship often emerges from 485 period work.
Lifestyle and exploration
Post-graduation time to explore Australia, travel, and decide on long-term plans. 485 supports this.
The 485 remains one of the better value post-study visas globally.
Despite the fee increase, the 2-4 years of unrestricted work rights the 485 provides remain exceptional value. Most comparable post-study visas in other countries offer shorter periods with more restrictions. Plan around the current fee, but do not let fee alone drive pathway choice.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For 485 strategy, book with Vishal Sharma.
Does the higher fee mean 485 approval is more likely?
No. Fees fund Department processing but do not change approval standards. Evidence drives approval.
Can I get a fee refund if refused?
Generally no. Application fees are not refundable on refusal. Applies to most visa types.
Are there fee concessions for any 485 applicants?
Limited. Some specific categories have concessions but the bulk of applicants pay the full charge.
Will the fee increase again soon?
Fees are adjusted periodically. Check current fee at lodgement time. Plan for possible future increases.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.