Dreaming of permanent residency in Australia? You’re not alone. From stunning beaches to a thriving job market, Australia remains one of the top destinations for migrants. But while the lifestyle may be relaxed, the cost of getting PR is? Not so much. If you’re eyeing permanent residency in 2025, it’s time to talk numbers.
Whether you’re applying through the Skilled Migration route, a partner visa, or the Employer Nomination Scheme, every PR pathway comes with a price tag. And let’s be honest—those fees aren’t going down anytime soon. So, how much does it cost to get a PR in Australia in 2025? Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
What Are the Main PR Pathways—and Why Do Costs Vary?
Australia offers several visa subclasses under the permanent residency umbrella, each tailored to different migrant profiles. Here are the most common ones:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Partner Visa (Subclass 801/820)
- Regional PR Visas (Subclass 191, 494 transitioning)
Your total PR cost will depend on the stream you choose. For instance, skilled visas typically involve assessment fees and English language tests, while partner visas come with one of the highest application charges, but skip the skills testing part.
Application Fees in 2025: What’s Changed?
Let’s cut straight to the main figures. As of 2025, the Australian Government has revised visa application charges to adjust for inflation and increased processing demand. Here’s what you’re looking at for primary applicants:
Also Read: How Can You Appeal a Rejected Australia Visa in 2025?
- Subclass 189/190/186: AUD 4,640
- Subclass 801 (Partner Visa): AUD 8,850
- Subclass 191 (Regional PR): AUD 465
- Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Visa): AUD 4,765 (first installment) + AUD 43,600 (second installment)
For secondary applicants (like spouses or children), additional charges apply:
- Adult dependents (18+): AUD 2,320
- Child dependents: AUD 1,160
Please note that these are base fees. If you’re lodging from within Australia, you may also incur a Subsequent Entrant Fee or a Visa Evidence Charge if applicable.
Extra Costs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Visa fees are just the tip of the iceberg. Depending on your stream, you’ll likely encounter these additional expenses:
1. Skills Assessment Fees
Required for most skilled visas, these are paid to assessing bodies like Engineers Australia or VETASSESS. Expect to spend:
- AUD 500 to 1,200, depending on the occupation
2. English Language Tests
If you don’t hold a passport from an exempt country, you’ll need to prove your English skills. IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL fees range from:
- AUD 410 to 440 per test
3. Medical Examination
Mandated for all PR applicants and their family members:
- Cost: AUD 350 to 450 per person
4. Police Clearance
You’ll need to submit police certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months in the past 10 years:
- Cost varies: AUD 50 to 100 per country
5. Translation & Document Certification
If your documents aren’t in English, you’ll need certified translations:
- Budget around AUD 30 to 60 per page
Do You Need a Migration Agent or Lawyer?
Hiring a registered migration agent isn’t compulsory, but it can save you from costly mistakes, especially if your case is complex.
- Agent fees range from AUD 2,000 to 5,000, depending on the visa subclass and case complexity.
If you feel confident navigating the process yourself, great. But if you’re unsure, this might be one of the few costs that’s worth it.
Can You Pay in Installments or Get a Refund?
Unfortunately, most PR visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused. The only exceptions apply in rare cases of duplicate applications or visa cancellation before assessment.
Also Read: What Are the Financial Rules for Sponsoring a Spouse in Australia?
Installment options are not available for most skilled PR visas. However, some family-related visas (like the Contributory Parent Visa) split the cost into two payments.
Cost vs. Outcome: Is an Australian PR Worth It?
Let’s say you’re a single, skilled applicant applying from overseas. Here’s an estimated total breakdown for 2025:
- Visa fee: AUD 4,640
- Skills assessment: AUD 800
- English test: AUD 420
- Medical & police checks: AUD 500
- Miscellaneous (translations, documents): AUD 200
Total: Around AUD 6,500 – 7,000 before adding any professional help.
It’s not pocket change, but if you compare this to the value of permanent residency—access to Medicare, work rights, a clear path to citizenship, and the ability to sponsor family—it’s still a solid investment. Especially when you consider the long-term economic and social benefits of settling in Australia.
Final Thoughts: Budget Smart, Plan Smarter
So, how much does it cost to get a PR in Australia in 2025? Between AUD 6,000 to 10,000+, depending on your visa path and personal situation. While the upfront expense might seem steep, it’s a one-time cost for a lifetime of benefits.
The key is to plan early, budget wisely, and double-check every requirement before lodging. A rejected PR application can set you back months—and thousands of dollars. But with the right prep, the process can be smoother (and slightly less painful on your wallet).
Considering PR in Australia? Start budgeting now—your future self will thank you.
Karan Rawat
Content strategist and Full-time editor of The Immigration World. Karan focuses on simplifying complex immigration rules and scholarship opportunities into clear, practical guidance for global readers. Passionate about making international relocation easier for everyone.
