How Much Does an Australian Visa Cost in 2026?

# How Much Does an Australian Visa Cost in 2026?

It's the first question almost everyone asks — and honestly, it's the right one to ask early. Understanding the cost of an Australian visa before you start your application helps you plan, budget, and avoid surprises.

But here's the thing: the answer isn't as simple as a single number. The total cost depends on which visa you're applying for, your personal circumstances, and whether you're applying with professional assistance or going it alone.

This post gives you a clear overview of what's involved — without the fine print that only confuses things.

The Two Components of Your Visa Cost

For most applicants working with Sama Sama Visas, the total cost of your visa has two parts:

1. The government visa application charge (VAC) — this is the fee paid to the Australian Department of Home Affairs. It is set by the Australian government and is non-refundable once lodged, regardless of the outcome.

2. The assistance fee — this is what you pay Sama Sama Visas for preparing your documents, reviewing your application, and lodging everything correctly on your behalf.

When you pay through Sama Sama Visas, you pay one total amount. We handle the government fee payment to the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. There is nothing extra to pay separately.

What Are the Government Fees?

Government visa fees change periodically and vary significantly by visa type. Here's a general guide for 2026:

Tourist Visa (Subclass 600): The base application charge for a tourist visa is in the range of AUD 190 for a standard visitor application. Additional applicants (such as a spouse or child included on the same application) attract a separate charge.

Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100): This is one of the most expensive visa categories. The government charge for a partner visa application is currently over AUD 9,000 — and that figure increases each year. This is the government's fee alone, before any assistance fees.

Student Visa (Subclass 500): The government application charge for a student visa is currently around AUD 800. Note that health examinations are a separate cost and are not included in the visa application charge.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 462): The government application charge is currently around AUD 650. There is also the SDUWHV (Surat Dukungan Undangan Working Holiday Visa) step, which involves a separate process before the main application.

What Does the Assistance Fee Cover?

The assistance fee is what you pay Sama Sama Visas for our work. This varies depending on the complexity of your application and the services included.

For a clear quote specific to your situation, the best step is to contact us directly. We'll ask a few questions about your circumstances and give you a transparent breakdown of the total cost — government fee included — before you commit to anything.

There are no hidden fees. No surprises at the end.

Why Does It Cost So Much for a Partner Visa?

The partner visa is genuinely expensive — and that surprises many people. The Australian government sets the fee, and it has increased significantly over the past several years.

The reason the cost is so high comes down to the complexity and the permanency of what you're applying for. A partner visa ultimately leads to permanent residency in Australia. The government charges accordingly.

For many couples, the partner visa is one of the most important applications they will ever lodge. Getting it right the first time — with professional assistance — is almost always more cost-effective than dealing with a refusal or a request for further information.

Can I Find Out the Exact Cost Before Starting?

Yes — and you should. Before you pay anything, contact us on WhatsApp. We'll confirm the current government fee for your visa type, explain our assistance fee, and give you a total figure so you know exactly what you're committing to.

No obligation. No pressure. Just a clear answer.

Message us on WhatsApp →

Government visa fees are set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and are subject to change. Always verify current fees at the time of application. Sama Sama Visas provides document assistance, not legal advice.