For many international students, the 485 visa (Temporary Graduate visa) is a critical step after graduation. It allows you to stay in Australia, gain valuable work experience, and explore your options for building a long-term migration pathway. For many, it becomes the bridge between study and permanent residency.
But as of 1 March 2026, major 485 visa changes have come into effect. The cost of applying for a 485 visa in Australia has increased significantly, with some applicants now paying double the previous visa fee.
This change has raised the stakes. If you get your 485 visa application wrong, it could now cost you thousands. For many applicants, you may only have one opportunity to apply for this visa, making it even more important to get it right the first time.
What Changed on 1 March 2026? (485 Visa Fee Increase Explained)
The Migration Amendment (Temporary Graduate Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2026 introduced a 100% increase to the 485 visa application fee for many applicants.
These 485 visa fee changes apply to all applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026.
Who Is Exempt from the 485 Visa Fee Increase?
The increase does not apply to primary applicants holding passports from the following countries:
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Kiribati
- Nauru
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Republic of the Marshall Islands
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
Applicants from these countries are exempt from the fee increase and are considered eligible passport holders under the new fee structure. They continue to pay the previous 485 visa application fees.
New 485 Visa Fees in Australia (From 1 March 2026)
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) fees are now divided into four categories:
- 485 Visa Applicant – Non-Eligible Passport Holders (Most Impacted)
- Primary applicant: $4,600 (previously $2,300)
- Additional applicant (18+): $2,300 (previously $1,150)
- Additional applicant (under 18): $1,160 (previously $580)
- Subsequent 485 Visa Applicant – Non-Eligible Passport Holders
- Primary applicant: $1,810 (previously $905)
- Additional applicant (18+): $910 (previously $455)
- Additional applicant (under 18): $460 (previously $230)
- 485 Visa Applicant – Eligible Passport Holders
- Primary applicant: $2,300
- Additional applicant (18+): $1,150
- Additional applicant (under 18): $580
- Subsequent 485 Visa Applicant – Eligible Passport Holders
- Primary applicant: $905
- Additional applicant (18+): $455
- Additional applicant (under 18): $230
The Real Risk: 485 Visa Refusal Could Cost You Thousands
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) remains one of the most important pathways for international students in Australia, allowing you to gain work experience and move toward skilled migration
However, the financial risk has now increased significantly. The Department of Home Affairs does not refund your visa application fee if your 485 visa is refused.
This means:
- You could lose $4,600 or more
- You may lose your chance to stay in Australia
- Your future visa options may be affected
With the 485 visa cost increase in 2026, mistakes are now far more expensive.
Common 485 Visa Mistakes to Avoid
Many 485 visa refusals are caused by avoidable errors, including:
- Applying under the wrong visa stream
- Missing the 6-month deadline after course completion
- Incorrect or incomplete skills assessments
- English test issues
- Not meeting Australian study requirements
- Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documentation
These mistakes are common, but under the new 485 visa fees, they come with much higher consequences.
What You Should Do Before Applying for a 485 Visa
If your student visa is nearing expiry, preparation is essential.
Before applying for a 485 visa in Australia, you should:
- Confirm your eligibility properly
- Choose the correct visa stream
- Understand exactly what evidence is required
- Prepare your documents carefully
- Lodge a decision-ready application
A clear strategy can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
How Aspire Australia Can Help You Get Your 485 Visa Right
At Aspire Australia, we take a strategic approach to your 485 visa so you know exactly what to do and when to do it. We assess your situation, identify risks early, and guide you on the right evidence to provide. Our focus is to prepare a decision-ready application that meets the Department’s requirements clearly and accurately.
The 485 visa is a crucial step in your migration journey, and getting the strategy right at this stage can make all the difference to your future in Australia. With over 25 years of experience, Aspire Australia can help you get clarity, confidence, and a clear pathway forward. Book an appointment with our team today.
