Visa fees · Subclass 189
Subclass 189 visa cost and processing time (2026-27)
Reviewed by a registered migration agent ·
MARN 1795282
Updated
The Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189) costs A$6,135 for the main applicant, plus A$3,070 for each additional applicant aged 18 or over and A$1,535 for each applicant under 18. Home Affairs reports that 75% of applications are finalised within 8 months and 90% within 8 months (Points-Tested). Fees are from the official Home Affairs pricing table, checked 7 October 2026; processing times are as at 29 September 2026.
How much is the subclass 189 visa application charge?
| Stream | Main applicant | Each extra applicant 18+ | Each applicant under 18 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong stream | A$6,135 | A$3,070 | A$1,535 |
| Points tested stream | A$6,135 | A$3,070 | A$1,540 |
Source: Department of Home Affairs — Current visa pricing, checked 7 October 2026. Charges are indexed each 1 July. Card payment surcharges, health examinations, police certificates, skills assessments and translations are extra. Confirm the final amount with the official Visa Pricing Estimator before you lodge.
How long does the subclass 189 visa take?
| Stream | 75% of applications | 90% of applications |
|---|---|---|
| Points-Tested | 8 months | 8 months |
| New Zealand | 58 months | 61 months |
Source: Home Affairs global visa processing times, as at 29 September 2026. See how times have moved on our processing times tracker.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 189 visa cost in 2026-27?
The base visa application charge for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is A$6,135, plus A$3,070 for each additional applicant aged 18 or over and A$1,535 for each applicant under 18, according to the Department of Home Affairs pricing table checked on 7 October 2026. Health checks, police certificates and other third-party costs are extra.
How long does the subclass 189 visa take to process?
Home Affairs reports that 75% of subclass 189 applications (Points-Tested) were finalised within 8 months and 90% within 8 months, as at 29 September 2026. Individual applications can take longer, for example if information is missing or extra checks are needed.
Full eligibility, steps and pathways: 189 Visa 2026: Points Needed, Fee & Processing · All visas: Australian visa fees table. General information only, not migration advice.