Migrating to Australia from India is a dream for many due to its high quality of life, strong economy, and diverse job opportunities. However, the process involves various expenses that applicants must consider. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with moving to Australia, including visa fees, relocation expenses, living costs, and miscellaneous expenditures.
1. Visa Costs
One of the primary costs when migrating to Australia is the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa you apply for. Below is an overview of some common visa categories:
Skilled Migration Visas
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): AUD 4,640 (for the main applicant)
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): AUD 4,640
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): AUD 4,640
- Additional applicants (spouse and children): AUD 2,320 per adult and AUD 1,160 per child
Family & Partner Visas
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100): AUD 8,850
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103): AUD 6,625
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143): AUD 47,825
Student Visa
- Student Visa (Subclass 500): AUD 710
- Guardian Visa (Subclass 590): AUD 710
These visa fees are subject to change based on government regulations.
2. English Language Tests
Most skilled migration applicants must take an English proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. The cost of these tests is:
- IELTS: AUD 410
- PTE Academic: AUD 410
- TOEFL iBT: AUD 330
3. Skills Assessment Fee
Applicants under the skilled migration program need a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. The fees vary by occupation and assessing body:
- Engineers Australia: AUD 1,050 – AUD 1,200
- ACS (Australian Computer Society) for IT professionals: AUD 500 – AUD 1,050
- VETASSESS (General Skilled Migration occupations): AUD 968 – AUD 1,440
4. Medical Examination and Police Clearance
Applicants must undergo a medical examination and obtain police clearance certificates.
- Medical Examination: AUD 350 – AUD 500 per person
- Police Clearance Certificate (India): INR 500 – INR 1,000 (~AUD 10 – AUD 20)
- Australian Federal Police Clearance: AUD 42
5. Travel and Flight Costs
Flights from India to Australia vary based on season, airline, and city of departure. Approximate costs:
- One-way economy ticket: AUD 600 – AUD 1,500 per person
- Business class ticket: AUD 2,500 – AUD 5,000
6. Initial Settlement Expenses
Migrants need funds to cover accommodation, transport, and daily expenses upon arrival.
- Temporary accommodation (hotels, Airbnb, hostels): AUD 80 – AUD 250 per night
- Long-term rental bond and advance rent: AUD 2,000 – AUD 4,000
- Furniture and home essentials: AUD 2,000 – AUD 5,000
7. Cost of Living in Australia
The cost of living varies by city. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive, while Adelaide and Perth are more affordable. Below is an estimate of monthly expenses for a single person:
| Expense Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 150 – 250 |
| Groceries | 400 – 800 |
| Public transport | 100 – 200 |
| Health insurance | 100 – 200 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | 200 – 500 |
| Total | 2,450 – 4,450 |
For a family of four, living costs can range from AUD 4,500 – AUD 7,000 per month.
8. Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for temporary visa holders.
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for a single person: AUD 600 – AUD 1,200 per year
- Family cover: AUD 2,000 – AUD 4,000 per year
9. Education Costs (for children)
If migrating with children, education expenses should be considered:
- Public school fees for temporary residents: AUD 5,000 – AUD 15,000 per year (varies by state)
- Private school fees: AUD 10,000 – AUD 30,000 per year
10. Miscellaneous Costs
Additional expenses may include:
- Driving License Conversion: AUD 50 – AUD 150
- Job search and professional networking: AUD 500 – AUD 1,500
- Unexpected expenses: AUD 1,000 – AUD 2,000
11. Total Estimated Cost Breakdown
| Category | Cost Range (AUD) |
| Visa Fees | 4,640 – 47,825 |
| English Test | 330 – 410 |
| Skills Assessment | 500 – 1,440 |
| Medical & Police Clearance | 360 – 550 |
| Flight Tickets | 600 – 1,500 |
| Initial Settlement | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Living Costs (6 months) | 14,700 – 26,700 |
| Health Insurance | 600 – 4,000 |
| Education (if applicable) | 5,000 – 30,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 28,730 – 117,925 |
Migrating to Australia from India requires significant financial planning. The total cost varies based on visa type, family size, lifestyle preferences, and city of settlement. Applicants should also maintain sufficient savings to cover initial expenses while securing employment in Australia. Proper planning and budgeting can ensure a smooth transition to life in Australia.
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