Month: July 2025

Australian Visa Fee Updates for 2025: What’s Changing?

If you’re planning a move to Australia or considering a new visa application, it’s important to be aware of the latest changes to visa fees. As of July 2025, several key visa subclasses have seen notable increases, affecting students, skilled workers, temporary graduates, and even visitors. Here’s a clear overview of the new fees and what you can expect.   Overview of Major Visa Fee Adjustments Student Visa (Subclass 500) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 1,600–1,808 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 2,000 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 1,225 (over 18)   Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 1,945 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 2,235 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 1,115 (over 18), AUD 560 (under 18)   TSS (482) Visa Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 1,455–3,115 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 3,210 Additional Applicants (Current): Fees vary—consult the official site for details   Employer Sponsored Visas (186/494) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 4,640–4,770 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 4,910 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 2,455 (over 18), AUD 1,230 (under 18)   Skilled Migration Visas (189/190/491) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 4,640–4,770* Main Applicant (Current): AUD 4,910 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 2,455 (over 18), AUD 1,230 (under 18)   Working Holiday Visas (417/462) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 650 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 670 Additional Applicants (Current): Fees vary—consult the official site   NZ Citizen Family Visa (461) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 430 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 445 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 225 (over 18), AUD 110 (under 18)   Partner Visas (300, 309, etc.) Main Applicant (Previous): AUD 9,095 Main Applicant (Current): AUD 9,365 Additional Applicants (Current): AUD 4,685 (over 18), AUD 2,345 (under 18)   Bridging Visa B Main Applicant (Previous): Often minimal or same as before Main Applicant (Current): AUD 190 Additional Applicants (Current): Not typically applicable   Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Main Applicant (Previous): Offshore: AUD 195, Onshore: AUD 490 Main Applicant (Current): Offshore: AUD 200, Onshore: AUD 500 Additional Applicants (Current): Fees vary—consult the official site   Why Are Fees Increasing? Australian visa fees are typically adjusted each year to keep pace with inflation and changes in government policy. The 2025 increases are part of this regular process, though some visas—such as the Student and Employer Sponsored subclasses—have seen larger jumps than usual.   What Should Applicants Do? With these fee increases in effect, it’s wise to review your visa plans and budget accordingly. If you’re eligible and ready to apply, submitting your application sooner rather than later could help you avoid future price hikes. Always check the official Australian government immigration website for the most up-to-date information before starting your application.   In summary: The 2025 updates bring higher costs for many visa types, especially for students and skilled workers. Stay informed, plan your finances, and apply when you’re ready to make the most of your Australian journey!

Understanding the 2025 PGWP Overhaul: A Deeper Dive

Canada’s recent update to the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program marks a significant shift in how international students can transition to the Canadian workforce. The government’s decision to realign PGWP eligibility with current labour market needs is a strategic response to Canada’s evolving economic landscape.   Why This Change Now? The Canadian labour market has been experiencing persistent shortages in specific sectors, particularly in healthcare, education, and skilled trades. By updating the PGWP-eligible fields, the government aims to attract international talent to these priority areas, ensuring that graduates have strong employment prospects while also addressing gaps in the workforce.   What Fields Are Now Favoured? Healthcare & Social Services: There is a renewed emphasis on programs such as veterinary technology, dentistry, lab technology, optometry, and various allied health professions. These areas are critical as Canada faces an aging population and increased demand for health services. Education: For the first time, a wide range of education programs—including early childhood, elementary, and subject-specific teaching—are PGWP-eligible. This move is designed to help fill teaching shortages across the country. Skilled Trades: Construction engineering, CNC machinist, culinary arts, and other technical trades are now prioritized. These roles are essential for infrastructure development and economic growth.   What’s No Longer Eligible? Fields that are no longer experiencing labour shortages have been removed from the PGWP list. This includes many programs in: Transport: Aviation, logistics, and supply chain management roles. Agriculture: Most agricultural business and management programs, as well as crop and dairy production. Environmental Studies & Some STEM: Environmental science, web and digital media design, and several engineering disciplines like aerospace and computer engineering. Other Trades: Solar energy technology, electrical and power transmission, and certain machine shop trades.   Transition Rules: Who Is Protected? If you applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, you are “grandfathered” in—meaning you’ll remain eligible for a PGWP even if your program has since been removed from the list. This ensures fairness for students who made education decisions based on the previous criteria.   The Bigger Picture: What Does This Mean for Students? Greater Certainty: Students can be more confident that their studies will lead to in-demand jobs and a smoother pathway to Canadian permanent residency. Need for Careful Planning: Prospective students must now pay close attention to the CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) code of their intended program and verify its eligibility at the time of their application. Dynamic Eligibility: The list of eligible fields will continue to evolve based on labour market data, so staying informed is crucial.   Planning Your Path: What Applicants Should Know Check the Latest List: Before applying, consult the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date list of eligible programs. Consider Labour Market Trends: Choose programs that align with sectors facing long-term shortages for better work and immigration prospects. Consult an Expert: If unsure, seek advice from a qualified immigration consultant or educational advisor to ensure your chosen field remains eligible.   These changes underscore Canada’s commitment to a responsive, skills-based immigration system—one that benefits both international graduates and the nation’s economic future