Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for skilled workers, students, and migrants seeking a better quality of life. Its high standard of living, strong economy, and multicultural society make it a top choice for those considering permanent relocation. But before making the move, one of the most important questions potential immigrants ask is: “How much does it cost to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Australia?
The cost to apply for Australian PR varies based on the visa subclass, number of dependents, medical examinations, police clearances, and other ancillary fees. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down all the potential costs involved in applying for Australian permanent residency.
Understanding Australian Permanent Residency
Permanent residency (PR) in Australia allows non-citizens to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. PR holders can access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system), sponsor eligible family members, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship.
There are multiple visa subclasses through which one can obtain PR, including:
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187)
- Partner visa (subclass 801)
- Parent and other family visas
Each of these visas has different costs and processing times, which we’ll explore in detail.
Main Costs of PR Application
Visa Application Charges (VAC)
Visa Application Charges are the core government fees you must pay when submitting your PR application. Below are the primary PR visa categories and their respective costs as of 2025 (prices are in AUD and subject to change):
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Main applicant: AUD 4,640
- Additional applicant over 18: AUD 2,320
- Additional applicant under 18: AUD 1,160
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
- Main applicant: AUD 4,640
- Additional applicant over 18: AUD 2,320
- Additional applicant under 18: AUD 1,160
Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)
- Main applicant: AUD 4,640
- Additional applicant over 18: AUD 2,320
- Additional applicant under 18: AUD 1,160
Partner Visa (subclass 820/801)
- Combined application fee: AUD 8,850
- Additional applicant over 18: AUD 4,430
- Additional applicant under 18: AUD 2,215
Parent Visas (contributory)
- Main applicant (subclass 143): AUD 4,640 initial + second installment AUD 43,600
Medical Examination Fees
All PR applicants must undergo a medical examination with an approved panel physician. The average cost varies by country but typically ranges between AUD 300 and AUD 500 per applicant. Children’s exams are generally cheaper.
Police Clearance Certificates
Applicants must obtain police clearance certificates from every country in which they have lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years. Costs vary widely but are typically in the range of AUD 50–100 per certificate.
English Language Testing Fees
Applicants must prove English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, or Cambridge. The typical cost per attempt:
- IELTS: AUD 410
- PTE Academic: AUD 445
- TOEFL: AUD 330
Skills Assessment Fee
Many skilled PR visa subclasses require a positive skills assessment. Each assessing authority sets its own fees. Examples include:
- ACS (IT occupations): AUD 530–600
- Engineers Australia: AUD 400–1,200 depending on type
- VETASSESS (General occupations): AUD 880–1,000
State Nomination Fees (if applicable)
For subclass 190 or 491 (provisional leading to PR), state or territory nomination may be required. State nomination fees differ:
- South Australia: AUD 330
- Victoria: Free
- New South Wales: AUD 300
Migration Agent Fees
While not mandatory, many applicants hire a registered migration agent to assist with their application. Average fees:
- Skilled visas: AUD 2,000–5,000
- Partner visas: AUD 3,000–6,000
- Parent visas: AUD 4,000–7,000
Always ensure your agent is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA).
Cost Examples Based on Scenarios
Single Skilled Migrant (subclass 189)
- Visa Application: AUD 4,640
- IELTS: AUD 410
- Medical: AUD 400
- Police Clearance: AUD 100
- Skills Assessment: AUD 600
- Total (excluding agent): ~AUD 6,150
Married Couple with One Child (subclass 190)
- Main applicant: AUD 4,640
- Spouse: AUD 2,320
- Child: AUD 1,160
- IELTS (2 persons): AUD 820
- Medical (3 persons): AUD 1,200
- Police clearance (2 adults): AUD 200
- Skills Assessment: AUD 600
- State Nomination: AUD 300
- Total (excluding agent): ~AUD 11,240
Partner Visa Applicant
- Application fee: AUD 8,850
- Medical: AUD 400
- Police clearance: AUD 100
- Total (excluding agent): ~AUD 9,350
Hidden and Ongoing Costs
Translations and Document Certification
If your documents are not in English, they must be translated by certified translators. Costs vary per document and language but average AUD 25–60 per page.
Courier and Mailing Services
If submitting hard copies or receiving documents internationally, add another AUD 50–200 depending on your location.
Health Insurance
Some visa applicants (especially 482 or 485 transitioning to PR) must hold Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) before becoming eligible for Medicare.
Citizenship Application (Future Cost)
Once eligible, applying for Australian citizenship incurs a separate fee of AUD 540 (as of 2025).
Ways to Reduce PR Application Costs
- Prepare thoroughly to avoid re-submissions and test retakes.
- Compare skills assessment bodies where multiple options exist.
- Use online document submission when available.
- Consult registered agents only when necessary.
- Look for free or subsidized English language courses/tests if available.
Payment Methods
Visa application fees must be paid online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Most major credit cards are accepted, but be aware of additional processing fees (typically 1–2%).
Refund Policy
Generally, visa application fees are non-refundable if your application is withdrawn or refused. In some rare cases, partial refunds may apply if you haven’t completed biometrics or medicals yet.
Conclusion
The total cost of applying for permanent residency in Australia can range from around AUD 6,000 for a single skilled applicant to over AUD 20,000 for a family or for parent visa applicants. Being informed of all the potential costs and planning accordingly can prevent surprises during the process. Whether applying independently or through a migration agent, understanding the full financial scope is essential for a successful journey to Australian permanent residency.
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