Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Fee Update 2026: Cost, Reasons & Impact
- Jasmeet Kaur
- Mar 13
- 4 min read
Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations for international students. Many graduates choose to stay and work in the country after completing their studies through the temporary graduate visa 485. However, in 2026 the Australian government introduced a major update that significantly increased 485 visa fees, creating widespread discussion among students and migration experts.
If you are planning to apply for this visa, understanding the new fee structure, the reasons behind the change, and its potential impact is essential. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) fee update in 2026.
What Is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The temporary graduate visa 485 allows international students who have completed an eligible qualification in Australia to stay and work in the country temporarily after graduation. This visa helps graduates gain professional work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency pathways.
Generally, the visa duration depends on the qualification level:
18 months for some vocational graduates
2–3 years for bachelor’s or master’s graduates
Up to 4 years for doctoral graduates
This visa provides full work rights in Australia and can significantly improve a graduate’s chances of obtaining skilled migration visas later.
2026 Update: New 485 Visa Fees
One of the most significant changes in 2026 is the sharp increase in 485 visa fees. The Australian government doubled the application charge for this visa starting 1 March 2026.
Updated Fees (From 1 March 2026)
Primary applicant: AUD $4,600
Partner or secondary applicant (18+): AUD $2,300
Child under 18: AUD $1,160
These charges apply to all new applications submitted on or after 1 March 2026 across the different streams of the visa.
Before this change, the primary applicant fee was AUD $2,300, meaning the cost has effectively doubled overnight.
For students applying with family members, the total cost of the visa application can now exceed AUD $8,000 or more, depending on the number of dependants.
Streams Under the Temporary Graduate Visa 485
The temporary graduate visa 485 currently includes multiple streams designed for different types of graduates.
1. Post-Study Work Stream
This stream is for international students who completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in Australia.
It allows graduates to:
Work full-time in Australia
Gain industry experience
Improve eligibility for skilled migration
2. Graduate Work Stream
This stream is mainly for graduates with vocational education or trade qualifications that match occupations on the skilled occupation list.
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream
Some graduates from regional universities may be eligible for an extension of their post-study work rights.
All these streams are affected by the new 485 visa fees introduced in 2026.
Why Did the Government Increase 485 Visa Fees?
Many international students were surprised by the sudden increase in fees. Several factors may explain why the government implemented this policy.
1. Migration System Reforms
Australia has been updating its migration policies to better control the number of temporary visa holders and ensure the system focuses on skilled migration pathways.
Increasing visa fees can discourage unnecessary applications and encourage only serious candidates.
2. Managing International Student Growth
Australia’s international education sector has grown rapidly in recent years. With hundreds of thousands of students entering the country each year, the government is introducing stricter regulations and higher costs to manage migration levels.
3. Economic Revenue
Visa fees are an important source of government revenue. Increasing the 485 visa fees may help offset administrative and migration management costs.
4. Encouraging Skilled Migration Pathways
The government may also want graduates to transition more quickly into skilled visas that contribute directly to Australia’s workforce needs.
Also Read: Subclass 190 vs Subclass 491 Visa
Impact of the 2026 Fee Increase
The increase in 485 visa fees has several potential consequences for international students and the Australian education sector.
1. Higher Financial Pressure for Graduates
Many international students already face significant expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation, and living costs. Doubling the visa application fee can create additional financial pressure for graduates.
2. Reduced Applications
Some students may decide not to apply for the temporary graduate visa 485 due to the increased cost. This could lead to fewer graduates remaining in Australia after completing their studies.
3. Global Competitiveness
Australia competes with countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand for international students. Higher visa fees may affect Australia’s competitiveness as a study destination.
4. Impact on Migration Pathways
The 485 visa is often considered the first step toward permanent residency. If fewer students apply for it, the number of skilled migration applicants may also decline in the long term.
How Students Can Prepare for the Fee Increase
If you plan to apply for the temporary graduate visa 485, proper planning is essential.
Budget for Visa Costs
Students should include visa expenses in their financial planning well before graduation.
Apply at the Right Time
Because visa costs are determined by the date your application is lodged, it is important to apply as soon as you become eligible.
Ensure Application Accuracy
Since the application fee is non-refundable, submitting incorrect documents or incomplete information can result in financial loss.
Seek Professional Advice
Working with a registered migration agent can help you avoid costly mistakes and increase your chances of visa approval.
Is the 485 Visa Still Worth It?
Despite the higher 485 visa fees, the visa remains extremely valuable for international graduates.
Benefits include:
Full work rights in Australia
Valuable professional experience
Opportunity to build networks and career opportunities
A potential pathway to permanent residency visas such as skilled migration programs
For many graduates, the opportunity to work and gain experience in Australia still outweighs the higher visa cost.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) fee update in 2026 marks one of the biggest changes in Australia’s international student migration system in recent years. With 485 visa fees increasing to AUD $4,600, graduates must carefully consider their finances and application strategies.
While the price increase may create challenges, the temporary graduate visa 485 remains an important pathway for international students who want to build their careers in Australia and eventually transition to permanent residency.
Proper planning, timely application, and accurate documentation will help ensure that students can still take advantage of this valuable post-study work opportunity.
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