Applying for permanent residency (PR) in Australia is a significant milestone, but fully grasping how much PR in Australia can cost is often daunting due to hidden fees, varying expenses across visa subclasses, and additional requirements. This comprehensive guide simplifies the complex process by clearly outlining the 190 visa cost, the cost of the 189 visa, EOI fees Australia, and key considerations for couples applying together, along with essential supplementary expenses.
How Much is PR in Australia?
The primary visas sought by skilled migrants aiming for PR in Australia include the subclass 190 visa and the subclass 189 visa. While both provide pathways to permanent residency, their cost structures and application processes differ slightly.
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190 vs 189 Visa Fees: What’s the Difference?

190 Visa Cost
The 190 visa cost for application typically starts around AUD 4,770 for the primary applicant, with additional fees applicable for secondary applicants, such as spouses or dependent children. Couples applying together should budget approximately AUD 7,155, considering primary applicant and partner fees combined. Being aware of the exact 190 visa fees for couple scenarios beforehand can significantly streamline your budgeting process.
Cost of 189 Visa
Similarly, the cost of a 189 visa for primary applicants is approximately AUD 4,765, closely matching the subclass 190 visa. However, the total fee can differ slightly when dependents or family members are included. Specifically, the 189 visa fee for couples totals around AUD 7,150, mirroring the subclass 190 visa costs.
Partner and Spouse Visa Costs

For applicants focusing specifically on partner-based pathways, clearly understanding partner visa fees is crucial:
Partner Visa Australia Cost
The standard partner visa (temporary) (subclass 820) fee currently starts at approximately AUD 9,095. Given frequent adjustments by Australian immigration authorities, verifying the precise fee during application submission is recommended to avoid unexpected financial surprises.
Spouse Visa Australia Cost
The permanent partner visa generally involves a two-stage process, with the initial temporary visa costing around AUD 9,095 and the subsequent permanent stage typically not requiring additional fees. Offshore and onshore applications might have slight variations, making it essential to confirm specifics based on your circumstances.
EOI Fees Australia
EOI Fees Australia
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect for either the subclass 189 or 190 visas is generally free. Nevertheless, additional expenses may arise if utilizing registered migration agents or professional consultants to enhance your application’s accuracy and likelihood of success.
Additional Hidden Costs to Consider
Apart from primary visa application fees, several additional expenses should be factored into your PR budget:
- Medical Examinations: Typically costing around AUD 400-500 per adult, medical exams are mandatory to prove fitness and eligibility.
- Police Checks: Costs range from AUD 40-60 per country you’ve lived in over the last decade, crucial for background verification.
- English Language Tests (IELTS/PTE): Each attempt costs approximately AUD 460-480, necessary to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Document Translation: Certified translations of non-English documents can add extra costs, typically AUD 50-100 per document.
- Migration Agent Fees: Professional advice, while optional, often ranges from AUD 1,500-3,500 depending on complexity and services provided.
Collectively, these supplementary costs significantly impact the overall expenses associated with applying for PR.
Cost Breakdown Summary Table
Visa Type | Primary Applicant Cost | Couple/Partner Cost |
---|---|---|
Subclass 190 Visa | AUD 4,770 | AUD 7,155 |
Subclass 189 Visa | AUD 4,765 | AUD 7,150 |
Partner/Spouse Visa | AUD 9,095 | AUD 9,095 (approx.) |
EOI Fees Australia | Typically Free | Typically Free |
Final Tips for Budgeting PR Costs
- Regularly monitor official Home Affairs updates, as visa fees can fluctuate annually.
- Allocate additional funds for unforeseen expenses, such as repeat medical checks, supplementary document requirements, or reapplication fees.
- Seek professional migration advice early; investing in expert guidance can significantly reduce costly errors and streamline your application process.
- Maintain detailed records and receipts of all payments to facilitate easy tracking and provide clarity during application submissions.
Conclusion
Accurately understanding how much PR in Australia costs involves considering primary application fees, partner or family scenarios, and supplementary expenses thoroughly. Clearly outlining the 190 visa cost, cost of the 189 visa, partner visa Australia cost, and other relevant fees is vital for effectively managing your migration budget.
Ready to move forward confidently? At Kandel Consultancy, we specialize in simplifying the PR application process, ensuring clarity, affordability, and a stress-free experience. Reach out to our experienced team for personalized advice and detailed guidance tailored specifically to your unique needs.