Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Application Fees Increased from 1 July 2026

Last Updated: 02 July 2026

Introduction

From 1 July 2026, the Australian Government increased the application charges for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600). Whether you are applying from overseas or extending your stay while already in Australia, it is important to understand the new government fees before lodging your application.

Although the visa application charge is paid directly to the Department of Home Affairs, applicants should also consider the cost of Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC), particularly if their visa includes Condition 8501, which requires adequate health insurance during their stay in Australia.

This guide explains the new application charges, what they mean for visitors, and how to prepare your budget before applying.

New Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Application Charges from 1 July 2026

The Australian Government has updated the application charges for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).

These charges are government application fees and are separate from the cost of health insurance.

Why Were the Visitor Visa Fees Increased?

The Australian Government periodically reviews visa application charges across different visa subclasses. These adjustments help cover the administration of Australia's migration program.

Applicants should always check the latest government charges before lodging a visa application, as application fees may change from time to time.

Does the Visitor Visa Application Fee Include Health Insurance?

No.

The government application charge only covers the processing of your visa application.

If your visa includes Condition 8501, you must maintain adequate health insurance throughout your stay in Australia.

Health insurance is purchased separately from an approved Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) provider.

How Much Should You Budget for a Visitor Visa?

When planning your visit to Australia, consider the following costs:

• Government visa application charge
• Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
• Biometrics (if applicable)
• Medical examinations (if requested)
• Airfares
• Daily living expenses

Planning your budget in advance can help avoid unexpected costs during your stay.

Compare 600 Visitor Visa Health Insurance Before You Apply

If your visa requires health insurance, comparing policies before purchasing can help you find suitable cover that meets your visa requirements.

At 600 Visa Insurance, you can compare 600 Visitor Visa Health Insurance from:

• Allianz Care
• Bupa

Review:

• Hospital cover
• GP benefits
• Emergency ambulance
• Waiting periods
• Excess options
• Policy premiums

before choosing the most suitable policy.

Why Health Insurance is Important for Visitor Visa Holders

Healthcare in Australia can be expensive for overseas visitors.

A suitable OVHC policy can help cover:

• Hospital treatment
• Emergency ambulance
• GP consultations
• Specialist visits
• Prescription medicines
• Medical repatriation (depending on the policy)

Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing a policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application fee?

From 1 July 2026, the government application charge is:

• Offshore application – AUD 250
• Onshore Tourist Stream application – AUD 630

Does the visa application fee include health insurance?

No.

Health insurance is purchased separately and is not included in the government visa application charge.

Is health insurance compulsory for a Visitor Visa?

Some Visitor Visa holders have Condition 8501, requiring them to maintain adequate health insurance throughout their stay in Australia.

Which health insurance providers are available for Visitor Visa holders?

Providers such as Allianz Care and Bupa offer Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for eligible Visitor Visa holders.

Can I compare Visitor Visa health insurance online?

Yes. You can compare 600 Visitor Visa Health Insurance online to review hospital cover, waiting periods, excess options and premiums before choosing the most suitable policy for your stay in Australia.

Conclusion

The increase in Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application charges from 1 July 2026 means applicants should carefully plan the overall cost of visiting Australia.

In addition to the government application fee, visitors should consider the cost of adequate health insurance, especially where Condition 8501 applies.

Before purchasing your policy, compare Allianz Care and Bupa Visitor Visa Health Insurance to find the cover that best suits your visa requirements and budget.