Dreaming of a new life in the Land Down Under? As of January 2026, Australia has fully changed from the old TSS system to the new Skills in Demand (SID) Subclass 482 framework. This change makes things simpler for skilled workers. Whether you are a high-tech expert or looking for other ways like the new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), knowing the costs is very important. It helps you plan your move well.
This guide explains the main fees, salary needs, and other costs for 2026. It uses simple words so everyone can understand. We cover skilled jobs and non-skilled or regional paths. Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the latest details, as fees can change.
The 2026 Skilled Migration Framework: SID & PR Costs
In 2026, Australia groups skilled workers by their pay and skills. The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482) replaces the old Subclass 482. It has three main parts based on salary and job type. This helps fill jobs that Australians cannot easily take.
Skilled workers can get a temporary visa first and then move to permanent residency (PR). The main paths are the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) for PR or the SID Subclass 482 for temporary work.
Primary Applicant Costs for Skilled Streams
Here are the basic government fees for skilled visas in 2026. These are the main charges you pay to the government.
For the SID (Subclass 482) visa:
- Primary applicant: around $3,210
- Adult dependent (18 years or older): around $3,210
- Child dependent (under 18): around $805
For PR visas like Subclass 186, 189, or 190:
- Primary applicant: around $4,910
- Adult dependent: around $2,455
- Child dependent: around $1,230
For Regional visas like Subclass 491:
- Primary applicant: around $4,910
- Adult dependent: around $2,455
- Child dependent: around $1,230
These fees are estimates based on recent updates. The government reviews fees each year, often in July. For exact amounts, use the official visa pricing estimator on the Home Affairs website. Fees may be higher for some streams or if you apply from inside Australia.
Crucial 2026 Policy Drivers: The Income Thresholds
Your visa type and speed depend on your salary. Australia sets minimum pay levels to protect workers.
- Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): You must earn at least $76,515 per year. This applies to many skilled jobs on the Core Skills list. It was updated on July 1, 2025, and stays the same until the next change in July 2026.
- Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT): You must earn at least $141,210 per year. This is for very skilled or specialist jobs. People in this group get faster processing and fewer limits on job types.
If your job pay is below these amounts, your visa may not be approved. Employers must offer at least this salary. This rule makes sure overseas workers get fair pay like Australians.
Non-Skilled & Regional Pathways: The 2026 PEV Update
Australia also gives chances for non-skilled or semi-skilled workers. This is mostly through regional jobs or special programs for Pacific countries.
The Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192) is a permanent visa. It uses a lottery or ballot system. This helps people from Pacific islands and Timor-Leste.
- PEV Ballot Registration Fee: $25 (this is to enter the lottery).
- PEV Visa Charge: Only about $335 for the main applicant if you win the ballot.
This visa is permanent, so you can live and work in Australia forever if selected.
Other options for non-skilled paths:
- Training Visa (Subclass 407): For workplace training to build skills. The fee is around $430.
- Regional Work Visa: Like Subclass 494 (employer-sponsored regional). The main fee is around $4,910, same as skilled PR.
These paths help people start in regional areas. Many can later move to skilled visas if they gain experience.
The “Hidden” Costs: What the Department Doesn’t List First
Many people only think about the visa fee. But there are other costs you must pay. These can add up fast.
Mandatory Supplementary Costs
- Skills Assessment Fees: You need to check if your skills match the job. Groups like VETASSESS, ACS, or Engineers Australia do this. It costs between $1,000 and $1,500.
- English Language Test: Like PTE or IELTS. It costs about $300 to $400.
- Medical Exam Fees: Through Bupa or approved clinics. It is around $300 to $500 for each person.
- Police Clearance Certificates (PCC): From your home country. Costs vary but usually $50 to $150.
- Subsequent Temporary Application Charge (STAC): If you are already in Australia on a temporary visa and apply for a new one, you may pay an extra $700.
Add these to your budget. They are needed for most applications.
Employer Costs: The SAF Levy & Sponsorship
If an employer sponsors you, they pay many costs. You do not pay these, but it is good to know.
- Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS): Around $420 (employer pays).
- Nomination Fee: Around $330 (employer pays).
- Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy: This is $1,200 to $1,800 per year of the visa. It depends on the business size.
The SAF levy helps train Australians. If your visa is refused, the levy is usually not refunded unless the employer withdraws the nomination early for special reasons.
Summary: Total Migration Cost Estimate 2026
For a single person like a tradesperson coming on a skilled SID visa in 2026, your total costs (visa fee + skills check + medical + English test) are often between $5,500 and $7,500 AUD. This is your “out of pocket” amount.
For families, add fees for each person. Non-skilled paths like PEV can be much cheaper if you win the ballot.
FAQ: 2026 Australia Work Visa Price Increase
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When is the next Australia work visa price increase?
Fees usually go up in July each year. Based on past changes, expect a 3% to 4% rise in July 2026. This matches the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
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Can I move from a non-skilled to a skilled visa?
Yes. Many start on a Training Visa (Subclass 407) or PEV. After some time and meeting salary rules like CSIT, they can apply for skilled PR.
Take the Next Step
The 2026 rules make migration faster and more online. But you must be careful and accurate to avoid refusal. Are you ready to check your points and exact costs? The process is digital now, but details matter a lot. Would you like help with a custom points and cost check? Tell me your job title!
Disclaimer: This article is for information and learning only. Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) for the true and latest details before you decide or apply. Rules and fees can change.