Migration Agent Cost Australia: 2025 Fee Guide

Migration agent fees in Australia typically range from $1,500 to $10,000+, depending on the visa category:

• - [Student Visa](/visa/student-visa) (Subclass 500): $1,000–$2,500 — Relatively straightforward, lower fees
• - [Working Holiday](/visa/working-holiday-visa) Visa (Subclass 417/462): $500–$1,500 — Simple applications
• - [Skilled Independent](/visa/skilled-independent-visa) Visa (Subclass 189): $3,000–$6,000 — Includes skills assessment guidance
• - [Employer Sponsored](/visa/employer-sponsored-visa) Visa (Subclass 482/186): $3,000–$7,000 — Varies if employer or employee pays
• - [Partner Visa](/visa/partner-visa) (Subclass 820/801): $3,500–$8,000 — Documentation-heavy, two-stage process
• - [Parent Visa](/visa/parent-visa) (Subclass 143): $3,000–$6,000 — Long processing times may mean ongoing fees
• - Business Investment Visa (Subclass 188): $5,000–$15,000+ — Complex business cases
• - Protection Visa (Subclass 866): $3,000–$10,000+ — Often involves appeals and tribunals

These are agent fees only — you'll also need to pay government application charges (visa fees) separately.

Several factors influence how much a migration agent will charge:

1. Visa Complexity A straightforward student visa costs less than a complex partner visa with relationship evidence requirements.

2. Agent Experience Senior agents with 10+ years of experience and high success rates typically charge more than newer practitioners.

3. Location Agents in Sydney and Melbourne CBD offices may charge more than those in suburban or regional areas due to higher overheads.

4. Scope of Service Some agents offer full-service packages (assessment + application + follow-up), while others charge per consultation.

5. Case Complications Health issues, character concerns, visa refusals, or previous overstays can significantly increase costs.

On top of your agent's fees, you'll need to pay the Department of Home Affairs visa application charge:

• - Student Visa: $710
• - Working Holiday: $640
• - Skilled Independent (189): $4,640
• - Employer Sponsored (482): $1,455–$3,035
• - Partner Visa: $8,850
• - Parent Visa (143): $48,365 (contributory)
• - [Visitor Visa](/visa/visitor-visa): $190–$1,085

*Fees current as of January 2025. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest charges.*

For complex visa categories, using a registered migration agent can be worth every dollar:

• - Avoid costly mistakes — A refused visa means losing your application fee (often thousands)
• - Save time — Agents know exactly what evidence is needed
• - Higher success rates — Experienced agents know how to present strong cases
• - Peace of mind — Especially for high-stakes applications like partner or protection visas

For simple applications (working holiday, visitor visa), you may be able to apply yourself. For anything involving skills assessments, relationship evidence, or business plans, professional help is strongly recommended.

When comparing migration agents, don't just look at the price:

1. Check MARA registration — Only use registered agents (verify here)
2. Ask what's included — Does the fee cover the full application or just consultation?
3. Get quotes from 3+ agents — Use our free enquiry form to compare
4. Ask about payment plans — Many agents offer instalments
5. Read reviews — Check Google reviews and ask for client references

Use our cost estimator tool to get a personalised estimate based on your visa type and circumstances.