Australia has introduced a major change to its international student visa system, with the government confirming that it Australia doubles post-study work visa fee for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
Starting March 1, 2026, the base application cost for the visa increased from AUD 2,300 to AUD 4,600, effectively doubling the fee for graduates seeking to stay and work in Australia after completing their studies.
The decision means many international graduates, particularly from India, may now face visa expenses approaching ₹3 lakh, making Australia one of the most expensive countries for post-study work rights.
The announcement has sparked debate among universities, education consultants, and student groups about how the policy could affect international education and future mobility for skilled graduates.
What the Subclass 485 Visa Allows
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is one of the most important immigration pathways for international students in Australia.
It allows eligible graduates to live, work, and gain professional experience in Australia after completing their studies at an Australian institution.
The visa is often seen as a stepping stone toward permanent residency, giving graduates time to gain local work experience.
Key Features of the Visa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) |
| Purpose | Post-study work rights for international graduates |
| Maximum Duration | Up to 3 years depending on qualification |
| Eligibility | Graduates of Australian institutions |
| Pathway | Can support later permanent residency applications |
Because of these benefits, demand for the visa has remained strong among international students.
Australia Doubles Post-Study Work Visa Fee: What Changed
The biggest change introduced in 2026 is the sharp increase in the visa application fee.
Under the new rules, Australia doubles post-study work visa fee, raising the base charge for applicants to AUD 4,600.
Visa Fee Increase
| Year | Base Fee |
|---|---|
| Before March 2026 | AUD 2,300 |
| After March 2026 | AUD 4,600 |
For many international graduates, this represents a 100% increase in application costs.
Applicants may also face additional charges for:
- Dependent family members
- Health insurance requirements
- English testing or document preparation
- Migration agent fees
As a result, the total cost for some applicants may be significantly higher than the base application fee.
Impact on Indian Students and Graduates
India has become one of the largest sources of international students in Australia.
Recent education data indicates that Indian nationals account for a large share of Subclass 485 visa holders, particularly among graduates in fields such as information technology, engineering, and business.
Because Australia doubles post-study work visa fee, Indian graduates are expected to be among the groups most affected by the change.
The increased costs may require many students to:
- Reassess their post-study immigration plans
- Budget additional funds for visa applications
- Explore alternative destinations for work opportunities
Some education analysts suggest that the policy may influence future student decisions about studying abroad.
How the New Fee Compares With Other Countries
With the policy change, Australia now has one of the highest post-study work visa application fees among popular international study destinations.
Post-Study Work Visa Fee Comparison
| Country | Typical Post-Study Work Visa Fee |
|---|---|
| Australia | AUD 4,600 |
| Canada | ~CAD 255 for open work permit |
| New Zealand | Lower than Australia (varies by visa type) |
| United Kingdom | Several hundred pounds plus health surcharge |
Because Australia doubles post-study work visa fee, the country now ranks among the most expensive destinations for post-graduation work permits.
However, Australia remains attractive due to its strong labour market and migration pathways.
Concerns Raised by Universities and Student Groups
The fee increase has generated discussion across Australia’s higher-education sector.
Some university representatives and student groups have expressed concerns that Australia doubles post-study work visa fee could affect international student demand.
Potential concerns include:
- Increased financial burden on graduates
- Reduced attractiveness compared with other countries
- Challenges for students already managing tuition and living costs
At the same time, immigration authorities say visa policies may evolve over time as governments balance migration management with education sector priorities.
Possible Support Measures for Students
In response to the fee increase, some institutions are exploring ways to support international students.
Possible support initiatives discussed by universities include:
- Partial bursaries for priority research students
- Financial assistance for PhD candidates
- Career transition support programs
These initiatives aim to ensure that talented graduates can continue contributing to Australia’s workforce even as visa costs rise.
Advice for Students Planning to Apply
With the new fee structure in place, immigration advisers recommend that graduates prepare carefully before applying.
Because Australia doubles post-study work visa fee, submitting a complete application becomes even more important to avoid unnecessary costs.
Students planning to apply should consider:
- Ensuring all documents are accurate and complete
- Checking eligibility requirements before submitting an application
- Understanding visa conditions and timelines
- Preparing financial resources for the updated fee
Proper preparation can help reduce delays or complications during the visa process.
The Future of Post-Study Work Opportunities in Australia
Despite the fee increase, Australia remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students.
The country offers:
- Globally recognized universities
- Strong employment opportunities for graduates
- Potential pathways to permanent residency
However, the policy decision that Australia doubles post-study work visa fee highlights how immigration systems continue to evolve in response to economic and migration pressures.
For international students, staying informed about visa policies will remain essential when planning education and career pathways abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did Australia double the post-study work visa fee?
The government increased the visa fee as part of broader immigration and visa policy adjustments. The goal may include managing application volumes and supporting administrative costs.
How much does the post-study work visa cost now?
After the change, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) costs AUD 4,600 for the primary applicant.
Who is affected by the new visa fee?
International graduates from Australian institutions applying for the Subclass 485 visa after March 1, 2026 are affected by the increased fee.
Can international graduates still work in Australia after studying?
Yes. The visa still allows graduates to live and work in Australia for up to three years, depending on their qualification level.
Does the visa lead to permanent residency?
The post-study visa itself does not grant permanent residency, but it can help graduates gain work experience that may support future immigration pathways.
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