Australian Visa Fee Increase from 1st July 2023
According to the Australian Federal Budget2023-2024, Department of Home Affairs’ decided to raise visa application fees(VACs) from 1st July 2023. Visa application fees (VACs) rising between 6% to 40% depending on the visa subclass.
Types of Visa fee increase in Australia
- Other visas (6 % of Increase)
- Visitor, training, temporary (short-term stay visas), temporary activity, working holiday visas (15% of Increase)
- Business innovation and Investment visas ( 40% of Increase)
- Pacific Engagement Visa and Pacific Australia Labour Mobility visas (Exemption from the increase)
This fee increase only applies to visa application charges. However, the sponsorship or nomination fees remain the same at this moment but may also be subject to changes. Sponsors should remain vigilant for any possible sponsorship or nomination fee changes.
Impact of Australian visa fee increase:
These changes aim to improve visa processing capacity and enhance service delivery efficiency by the Department of Home Affairs.
Impact of this increase in visa application fees may vary depending on the visa subclass and applicant’s personal financial circumstances. For example, on 1st July 2023 the application fee for a Partner visa (subclass 820/801 or subclass 309/100) will increase to AUD 8,570.10from current fees of AUD 8,085.00.
The Business Innovation and Investment visa will see the highest increase of 40%.Therefore, it is recommended that eligible visa applicants apply for their desired visa before the fee increase come into effect on 1st July2023.
While there are no changes in the sponsorship or nomination fees but an sponsors could be affected depending on whether they cover the visa applicant's fees. For example, if an employer acts as a work sponsor and only assumes responsibility for sponsorship and nomination fees, the visa application fee increase will not impact them. However, a sponsor of a Partner/ Parent visa who plan to cover the associated costs, the VAC fee increase may affect them.
Act Now, Apply for your desired visa before the visa fee increase:
If you have plans to apply for an Australian visa for travel, study, work, or permanent/temporary Migration, it is strongly recommended that you submit your application without delay to avoid the fee and charge increases by 1st July 2023. By doing so, you can secure the current fees and avoid paying the increased charges.
How Vista Migration and Education Services Can Help:
If you intend to pursue an Australian visa for purposes such as travel, study, work, or permanent/temporary migration, it is highly advisable to promptly submit your application. This will help you avoid the upcoming fee and charge hikes scheduled for 1st July 2023. Don't delay, act now to secure your visa application at the current rates. At Vista Migration and Education Services, our experienced team can provide expert guidance and support throughout the application process. Contact Us today to learn more.
