Australia is one of the most popular destinations for travelers around the world, including people from the UK. Whether you’re traveling for business, studying, or planning a long-term stay, understanding how much a visa to Australia from the UK costs is an essential step in the process. This article will explain the different types of visas, the costs associated with them, and the process of obtaining a visa to Australia.
Types of Visas to Australia for UK Citizens
Before discussing the cost, it is important to know the various types of visas you can apply for as a UK citizen. Australia offers a range of visa categories depending on the purpose of your visit. Some of the most common types of visas are:
Visitor Visas
This visa is for those visiting Australia for tourism or to visit friends and family. It is usually valid for 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the circumstances.
Subclass 600 (Tourist Visa)
The Subclass 600 is the most common visitor visa for short stays. It allows travelers to stay in Australia for tourism or to visit family and friends.
Cost
The standard application fee for the Subclass 600 visa is around AUD 145 (approximately £75).
If you apply for a longer stay, the fee can go up depending on your circumstances.
Working Holiday Visas
For those who are looking to travel to Australia while working to fund their trip, a working holiday visa might be the right option. This is ideal for young travelers who want to explore the country and gain short-term employment.
Subclass 417 (Working Holiday Visa)
This visa allows UK citizens aged 18 to 30 years to stay in Australia for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extending it for another year under certain conditions.
Cost
The fee for the Subclass 417 visa is AUD 510 (approximately £265).
Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday Visa)
Similar to the Subclass 417 visa, the Subclass 462 visa is for UK citizens between 18 and 30 years old. However, there are additional requirements for this visa, such as education qualifications and English language skills.
Cost
The fee for the Subclass 462 visa is also AUD 510 (approximately £265).
Student Visas
If you plan to study in Australia, you will need to apply for a student visa. This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course.
Subclass 500 (Student Visa)
The Subclass 500 student visa is for individuals who wish to study in Australia at a registered educational institution. You can stay for the duration of your course, and it allows limited work rights (up to 40 hours per fortnight).
Cost
The application fee for the Subclass 500 visa is approximately AUD 620 (around £320).
Skilled Migration Visas
If you wish to live and work in Australia permanently, you may apply for a skilled migration visa. These visas are for individuals who possess skills and qualifications in demand in the Australian labor market.
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)
This visa allows skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia. It is a points-based visa, where applicants must score a certain number of points to be eligible.
Cost
The application fee for the Subclass 189 visa is around AUD 4,240 (approximately £2,200).
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)
The Subclass 190 visa is similar to the Subclass 189 visa but requires a nomination by a state or territory government. It is also a points-based system.
Cost
The application fee for the Subclass 190 visa is around AUD 4,240 (approximately £2,200).
Business Visas
If you are planning to move to Australia to start a business, invest, or engage in entrepreneurial activities, there are specific business visas available.
Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment Visa)
This visa is for individuals who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government to invest in or establish a business in Australia.
Cost
The application fee for the Subclass 188 visa ranges from AUD 2,470 to AUD 4,045 (approximately £1,270 to £2,090), depending on the stream you apply for.
Family and Partner Visas
If you have family members or a partner in Australia, you may apply for a family or partner visa. These visas allow you to live with your partner or family members in Australia.
Subclass 820/801 (Partner Visa)
The Subclass 820 and 801 visas are for individuals who are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident. The Subclass 820 is the temporary visa, while the Subclass 801 is the permanent visa.
Cost
The application fee for the Subclass 820 visa is around AUD 7,850 (approximately £4,000).
The fee for the Subclass 801 visa is around AUD 3,865 (approximately £2,000).
How to Apply for an Australian Visa
Once you’ve decided on the type of visa you need, the next step is to apply. Here’s how to apply for an Australian visa:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying for a visa, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. For instance, some visas may require a health check or a police clearance certificate. Some visas, like the student visa, may require proof of enrollment in an Australian educational institution.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Gather the required documents for your visa application. This may include:
- Passport
- Proof of funds
- Health and character documents
- Educational certificates (for student visas)
- Work experience (for skilled visas)
Step 3: Apply Online
Most Australian visa applications can be completed online. Visit the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website to apply for your visa. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Once you have completed the application form, you will be required to pay the application fee. This can usually be done via credit card.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, the processing time will vary depending on the type of visa. Some visas may take a few weeks, while others may take several months. You will receive an email notification once your visa has been granted or if further information is required.
Step 6: Receive Your Visa
If your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification. This document will include important details about your visa, including the visa grant number, the visa conditions, and the period of validity.
Additional Costs and Fees
Aside from the base application fee, there are some additional costs and fees that you may need to consider when applying for an Australian visa from the UK. These include:
Health Checks
Some visa categories, such as student and work visas, may require applicants to undergo a medical examination. The cost of a health check depends on the country where you are completing the examination. The cost for a medical check in the UK typically ranges from £100 to £500, depending on the type of test required.
Police Certificates
For some visas, you may need to provide a police clearance certificate to show that you have no criminal record. The cost of obtaining a police certificate in the UK is around £45.
Biometrics
In some cases, you may be asked to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph. The cost for biometric collection is approximately £19.20 in the UK.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory for all visa types, travel insurance is highly recommended. The cost of travel insurance varies based on factors such as the duration of your stay and the type of coverage you choose. Expect to pay anywhere between £50 to £500 for comprehensive coverage.
Processing Times for Australian Visas
The processing times for Australian visas can vary widely depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Some visas may be processed within a few weeks, while others can take months. Below are some approximate processing times for different visa categories:
Visitor visas (Subclass 600): Processing time is typically around 10-30 days.
Working Holiday visas (Subclass 417): Processing time is usually 3-4 weeks.
Student visas (Subclass 500): Processing time is usually 4-6 weeks.
Skilled migration visas (Subclass 189 and 190): Processing time can range from 6 months to 12 months.
Partner visas (Subclass 820/801): Processing time can take 12-24 months.
What to Do While Waiting for Your Visa
While waiting for your visa to be processed, it is important to:
Stay updated by checking your email regularly for notifications.
Gather any additional documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Avoid making travel arrangements until your visa has been granted.
Conclusion
The cost of a visa to Australia from the UK depends on the type of visa you apply for. Visitor visas, working holiday visas, student visas, and skilled migration visas all have different fees. In addition to the application fee, you may also need to account for additional costs such as health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.
Applying for a visa can be a complex process, but with the right information, you can make the experience much easier. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements and gather all the necessary documents before submitting your application. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth visa application process for your trip to Australia.
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