An SBS English-language feature published late on 6 July highlights widespread confusion among skilled-migration applicants after Visa Application Charges (VACs) rose by roughly 25 % across the board – with some categories doubling or tripling. Bridging Visa B now costs AUD 575 (up from AUD 190) and Student visas AUD 2,500, while Partner visas exceed AUD 11,700. Migration agents interviewed by SBS say the increases were implemented without prior notice, forcing clients to find thousands of extra dollars at lodgement or delay applications. Industry bodies fear the policy will deter high-calibre migrants and international students, undermining the government’s own skilled-migration objectives. Home Affairs maintains that VAC revenue funds system reform and still represents a small proportion of total relocation costs.
![Visa-fee shock sends mixed signals to skilled migrants, warns SBS News]()
At this juncture, applicants may benefit from specialist assistance. VisaHQ, for example, tracks real-time changes to Australian VACs and provides streamlined visa processing support for individuals and businesses alike; its dedicated Australian hub lets users verify current government fees, generate cost estimates and lodge applications securely, reducing the risk of last-minute budget surprises.
Nevertheless, the abrupt hike contrasts with the incremental, CPI-style indexation of previous years and may prompt competing destinations such as Canada or the UK to emphasise their relative affordability. Corporate mobility managers should update cost projections immediately and consider absorbing some VAC increases for critical hires. Applicants already preparing submissions are urged to confirm current charges on ImmiAccount and ensure sufficient funds are available before pressing ‘submit’. Employers should also factor higher Bridging-visa costs into travel planning for onshore staff awaiting permanent decisions.
At this juncture, applicants may benefit from specialist assistance. VisaHQ, for example, tracks real-time changes to Australian VACs and provides streamlined visa processing support for individuals and businesses alike; its dedicated Australian hub lets users verify current government fees, generate cost estimates and lodge applications securely, reducing the risk of last-minute budget surprises.
Nevertheless, the abrupt hike contrasts with the incremental, CPI-style indexation of previous years and may prompt competing destinations such as Canada or the UK to emphasise their relative affordability. Corporate mobility managers should update cost projections immediately and consider absorbing some VAC increases for critical hires. Applicants already preparing submissions are urged to confirm current charges on ImmiAccount and ensure sufficient funds are available before pressing ‘submit’. Employers should also factor higher Bridging-visa costs into travel planning for onshore staff awaiting permanent decisions.
