Effective from 1 July 2023 onwards, there will be an increase in Australian visa application fees as outlined in the Federal 2023-2024 Budget released by the Australian Government’s Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 9 May 2023.
The Department of Home Affairs has decided to raise the Visa Application Charges (VACs) by varying percentages, depending on the visa subclass. The changes are as follows:
- Business innovation and Investment visas: 40% increase
- Visitor, working holiday, work and holiday, training, temporary activity, and temporary (short-stay specialist visas): 15% increase
- Other visas: 6% increase
- Pacific Engagement Visa and Pacific Australia Labour Mobility visas: Exempted from the increase
Why are Australian visa fees increasing?
The Department’s decision to increase fees may be attributed to several factors. One reason could be to enhance visa processing capacity by employing more visa processing officers. Additionally, the Government has allocated $27.8 million over a two-year period, starting in 2023-2024, to enhance the current visa ICT systems. These upgrades aim to streamline processes and improve service delivery efficiency, resulting in faster visa outcomes for applicants.
What does this mean for visa applicants?
As a visa applicant, this fee increase may pose financial challenges and limit opportunities for studying, working, or pursuing goals in Australia. For example, the current visa application fee for a Partner visa (subclass 820/801 or subclass 309/100) is AUD $8,085. However, by 1 July 2023, the VAC will increase to AUD$8,570.10. It’s worth noting that the Business Innovation and Investment visa will experience the highest increase at 40%.
Therefore, it is highly recommended that eligible visa applicants apply for their desired visa as soon as possible to secure the current fees before 1 July 2023.
Are increases applied to all DHA fees?
At present, the fee increase only applies to visa application fees. However, there is a possibility that sponsorship or nomination fees may also increase in the future. This could impact sponsors, depending on whether they are covering the visa applicant’s fees. If an employer acts as a work sponsor and only covers their own sponsorship and nomination fees, the visa application fee will not affect them for now. However, if you are planning to sponsor your parent on a Parent visa and intend to cover the costs, the VAC fee increase may also impact you.
HOW POINT MIGRATION AGENCY CAN HELP
If you are planning to apply for an Australian visa for travel, study, work, or permanent relocation, it is strongly advised to submit your application without delay to avoid the fee and charge increases by 1 July 2023. At Point Migration Agency, our experienced team can provide expert guidance and support throughout the application process. Contact us today to learn more.
