UPDATE - Increase Visa Application Charges in Effect from 1 July 2023 Onwards
On 19 June 2023, the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles introduced the Migration Amendment (Visa Application Charges) Regulations 2023 to update the increase the visa application charges (VAC). There are a few changes in the Instrument which will be in effect by 1 July 2023.
Significant Increase In Visa Applicants Fees By 1 July 2023
The Department of Home Affairs updated their VACs by increasing 6% to 46% depending on the visa subclass in addition to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This change will be effective from 1 July 2023 onwards.
| Visa classes | Percentage Increase | |
|---|---|---|
| Business innovation and Investment visas | 46% | |
| Visitor, working holiday, work and holiday, training, temporary activity and temporary (short stay specialist visas) | 21% | |
| Other visas | 6% | |
| Pacific Engagement Visa and Pacific Australia Labour Mobility visas | Exemption from the VAC increase, but pay the 3.25% for CPI |
How Do These Changes Impact You As A Visa Applicant?
As a visa applicant, you will have to be ready to make a payment with the increased visa application fees from 1 July onwards. The largest impact is for individuals who would like to apply for an Innovation Investor (Subclass 188A) visa application or Signification Investor (Subclass 188C) visa application, which is a 46% increase from the current VAC. Below are some popular visas examples with its VAC increase:
| Popular Visa Subclass Examples | Current VAC Before 1 July 2023 | VAC After 1 July 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor (Subclass 600) visa | AUD 150 | AUD181.50 |
| Partner (Subclass 820/801 or Subclass 309/100) visa | AUD 8,085 | AUD 8,5701 |
What Can Visa Applicants Do Now?
If you are planning to apply for an Australian visa to travel, work or move permanently to Australia in the coming period. We highly suggest you as the visa applicant apply for your aimed visa (if eligible) as soon as possible, so you can lock in the current fees before 1 July 2023.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
If you have previously applied for a waiver and been denied, we highly suggest that you speak with a lawyer to not further risk your visa application. At Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law with our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents are specialized in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
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