How Much Does a 482 Visa Really Cost in 2025? [Full Breakdown + Hidden Fees]

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, Subclass 482, comes with several costs. The primary applicant fee in 2025 is AUD $1,455 for the short-term stream and AUD $3,035 for the medium-term stream.

If you’re including family members, you’ll pay AUD $1,455 for each dependent over 18 and AUD $730 for each child under 18. Fees increase if your occupation is on the short-term list, and you apply for longer stays.

The Skilled Migration Levy (SAF) is another major cost. It is paid by your employer and ranges from AUD $1,200 to $1,800 per year, depending on the business size and visa length.

Hidden Fees That Catch Most Applicants Off Guard

Aside from the government charges, hidden fees often surprise applicants. These include:

• Health examinations: ~$350–$500 per applicant

• Police checks: ~$50–$200 per country

• Translation and certification: $25–$100 per document

• English test (IELTS, PTE): $410–$450

• Migration agent fees: $2,000–$5,000 depending on service level

Each of these adds up quickly. Budgeting without accounting for them leads to stress mid-process.

Employer Costs and Obligations

If you're being sponsored, your employer bears several costs. Beyond the SAF levy, they must pay:

• Job advertising costs: ~$300–$500

• Migration agent fees (if they assist you): $2,000–$3,000

• Nomination fee: AUD $330 per nomination

Employers must also ensure fair market salary and provide evidence of genuine labour market testing (LMT).

Medical and Insurance Expenses

482 visa applicants must maintain adequate health insurance. This is mandatory. Expect to pay:

• Single cover: $500–$1,200/year

• Couple/family: $2,000–$4,000/year

These are not optional and must start from the visa grant date or earlier.

These are not optional and must start from the visa grant date or earlier. If you're unsure about your visa conditions—such as whether you're allowed to work, how long you can stay, or what insurance is required—you can check them using the official Department of Home Affairs tool:
Check your visa details and conditions

English Language Test Requirements

If you're from a non-English speaking background, passing an approved English test is a must. The most common options are:

• IELTS: $410

• PTE Academic: $437

• TOEFL: ~$360

Some applicants may already meet the requirements through citizenship or education. However, most must pay for testing, including retakes.

Total Cost Estimate for a 482 Visa in 2025

ItemEstimated Cost (AUD)

Government Visa Fee (Main)$1,455 – $3,035

Dependent Fees (Per Person)$730 – $1,455SAF

Levy (Employer)$1,200 – $7,200

Health Checks$350 – $500

Police Clearances$50 – $200

English Test$410 – $450

Health Insurance (Annual)$500 – $4,000

Document Translation/Certification$100 – $300

Migration Agent Fees$2,000 – $5,000

For a single applicant with no dependents, expect to spend $4,500 to $6,500. With dependents, it can reach $10,000+. If your employer doesn’t cover costs, plan accordingly.

Can You Reduce 482 Visa Costs?

Yes, but carefully. Here are a few tips:

• Ask if your employer can sponsor and cover costs

• Bundle services with an agent for package discounts

• Compare health insurance plans before buying

• Use certified translators to avoid rejection or rework

• Check if you qualify for fee waivers or exemptions

Cutting corners may lead to refusal. It’s better to invest once than pay twice.

Conclusion: Be Financially Ready Before You Apply

The 482 visa is a valuable pathway to live and work in Australia. But the total cost is more than just the application fee. Always consider the full picture. Review all charges and ask your employer what they cover.

Need help calculating your exact costs? Book a free visa assessment now and get a tailored quote:
👉 https://calendly.com/mmvisa-info