When my family and I made the leap to immigrate to Australia, we quickly realized that while the dream of starting anew in a beautiful country was thrilling, the journey was accompanied by a hefty price tag. Many people often focus solely on the visa processing costs when contemplating immigration, but the reality is much more complex—and more expensive.
From my experience navigating this path, I learned that understanding the various costs associated with moving to Australia is crucial. Whether you’re bringing a spouse, children, or even just yourself, these expenses can add up quickly. Let’s dive into the details so you can prepare effectively for this exciting new chapter in your life.
Note that all costs mentioned in this blog are back in 2016.
1. Visa Processing Costs: The First Step
By opting for a migration agency, we had the peace of mind that came from knowing our application was in experienced hands. They handled everything—from document verification to ensuring we were following all the correct procedures—allowing us to continue with our busy lives without added stress.
Document Costs: A Paper Trail
Next came the inevitable document preparation. You may think you’re ready with your copies of birth certificates, marriage licenses, and school transcripts, but don’t be surprised if you need official copies from authorized agencies, which come at an additional cost. For us, it was an unexpected budget item that added a few hundred dollars to our total.
English Proficiency Tests: Proving Your Skills
If you’re like us and English isn’t your first language, be prepared for the costs associated with proving your proficiency. Depending on the visa you apply for, you may need to take the IELTS or PTE exams. The IELTS exam, for instance, cost AUD 395 when we applied, and the PTE was slightly less at AUD 385. This was just another step in demonstrating our readiness to contribute to Australian society.
Visa Application Fees: The Major Expense
The most significant expense came with the visa application itself. The fees vary depending on the visa type, but here’s a rough breakdown based on current charges:
| Visa type | Visa subclass | Main Applicant | Additional applicant 18yo and over | An additional applicant under 18yo |
| Skilled Independent Visa | subclass 189 | $4,240 | $2,120 | $1,060 |
| Skilled Nominated Visa | subclass 190 | $4,240 | $2,120 | $1,060 |
| Student Visa | subclass 500 | $650 | $485 | $160 |
| Business Visa | subclass 188 / 888 | $3,025 – $9,455 | $1,515 -$4,725 | $755 – $2,365 |
| Global Talent Visa | subclass 858 | $4,305 | $2,155 | $1,080 |
Medical Examination: A Health Check
As if the costs weren’t piling up already, we were also required to undergo a medical examination, which ranged from AUD 200 to AUD 450 per adult and AUD 85 to AUD 180 per child, depending on their age. If any health issues arose during the initial exam, we faced even more expenses for follow-up tests. It was one more step in the process that required careful budgeting.
2. Flying In: The Journey Begins
Once we had our visas, the next significant expense was the actual move—airfare and related costs.
Airfare: The Big Ticket Item
The cost of plane tickets can vary greatly depending on several factors, including how many people are traveling and your country of origin. We had the luxury of time, as we were given a year to enter Australia after our visa approval. This allowed us to hunt for the best deals, comparing airlines and routes to find the most affordable options.
Terminal Fees: A Surprise Cost
Don’t forget about potential terminal fees. Some airlines include these in your ticket price, but we found out the hard way that not all do, especially when flying from the Philippines. It’s wise to double-check what’s included in your ticket price to avoid any surprises at the airport.
3. Living Costs: Settling In
Finally, once we arrived, we had to consider the cost of living until we settled into our new routine.
Budgeting for Life in Australia
Your “pocket money” for initial expenses will depend largely on your situation. If you have a job lined up, that’s one less worry; but if you’re looking for work upon arrival, it’s essential to budget more.
Here’s what you should factor in when determining how much money to bring:
Miscellaneous: Set aside a bit for emergencies and unexpected expenses.
Rent: If you haven’t secured a place to stay, rent can be a major initial cost.
Groceries and Utilities: Basic living expenses that can quickly add up.
Transportation: Whether you plan to buy a car or use public transport, factor this into your budget.
Schooling: If you have children, consider potential school fees or daycare costs.
From my experience, a single person might need between AUD 7,000 to AUD 10,000, while a family of four could be looking at AUD 15,000 to AUD 20,000. However, every situation is unique, so tailor this budget to your needs.
A Journey Worth Taking
Ultimately, the journey to immigrate to Australia is filled with excitement and opportunity, but it also requires significant financial planning. My hope is that by sharing our experience and breaking down the costs we faced, you’ll feel better equipped to embark on your own journey to the Land Down Under.
Australia is a country filled with promise and adventure, and while the path may seem daunting at times, the rewards of building a life in such a vibrant culture are worth every penny spent. Happy planning!
