Major Fee Increased for Temporary Graduate (SC485) Visa
The Department of Home Affairs has implemented a major increase to the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa, effective 1 March 2026. This amendment introduces a 100% increase for most applicants, fundamentally changing the cost of this popular post-study work visa.
This fee increase applies specifically to new applications lodged on or after 1 March 2026. However, it is crucial to note that not all applicants are affected equally. The new fee structure is now divided into 4 tiers, distinguished between eligible and non-eligible passport holders.
Related: Which Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Stream is for You?
New Visa Application Charges (Effective 1 March 2026)
Here’s the breakdown of the new tiered fee structure:
| Types of Visa Applicant | First SC 485 - Eligible Passport Holders (No Increase) | First SC 485 - Non-Eligible Passport Holders | Subsequent SC 485 - Eligible Passport Holders (No Increase) | Subsequent SC 485 - Non-Eligible Passport Holders |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | $2,300 | $4,600 (previously $2,300) | $905 | $1,810 (previously $905) |
| Additional Applicant (18 years old and above) | $1,150 | $2,300 (previously $1,150) | $455 | $910 (previously $455) |
| Additional Applicant (under 18 years old) | $580 | $1,160 (previously $580) | $230 | $460 (previously $230) |
Related: Why Many Graduates Fail to Secure a Subclass 485 Visa - Common Mistakes to Avoid
Who are the Eligible Passport Holders that Are NOT Affected by the Increase?
Primary SC 485 applicants who hold a valid passport from the following countries will NOT be affected by the VAC fee increase:
Federated States of Micronesia
Fiji
Kiribati
Nauru
Palau
Papua New Guinea
Republic of the Marshall Islands
Samoa
Solomon Islands
Timor-Leste
Tonga
Tuvalu
Vanuatu
Applicants from these countries will continue to pay the pre-existing VAC amounts.
Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
Related:
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
If you are planning to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), make sure that you are aware of the latest migration changes. Consider contacting Agape Henry Crux and speaking with one of our immigration lawyers who work closely with two of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law for tailored advice and assistance is your best way forward. The team of immigration lawyers specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, has been recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
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