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For Brits moving abroad
Cost of Moving to Australia from the UK
Last checked: October 2026
The cost of moving to Australia from the UK is more than a visa. Here’s what you’ll pay for, with official visa fees checked in October 2026, and how to avoid losing thousands when you move your money.
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Other costs of moving to Australia from UK
Official fees for the main visas, primary applicant only. Checked October 2026.
Skilled Independent (subclass 189): from A$6,135
Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): from A$6,135
Skills in Demand (subclass 482): from A$4,015
Partners and children cost extra. Check current fees and processing times on the Home Affairs site.
Selling a house or moving your savings? Don't just use your bank. Banks often add a hidden margin to the exchange rate, and on a large transfer that can cost you thousands.
Currency specialists usually give better rates. Wise suits everyday and mid-sized transfers. For large sums like house sale money, specialists such as OFX or Currencies Direct can lock in a rate for you.
Compare rates before you send anything.
Other Costs
Visas and transfers are only part of it. Budget for these too:
Skills assessment for your occupation
Health checks and police certificates
Shipping your belongings
School fees for children on temporary visas, which vary by state
Get quotes early, because shipping in particular can take months to arrange.
Private health insurance if you're on a temporary visa like the 482
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School fees on a 482 visa
Children of 482 visa holders pay fees at public schools in NSW, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. Western Australia charges A$4,000 a year per family. In Victoria, they don’t pay tuition fees. In other states and territories, the rules differ, so check with that state’s education department before you move.
Renting a home
Most people rent when they first arrive. When you sign a lease, expect to pay a rental bond, usually up to four weeks' rent, plus rent in advance. The bond is held by the state government, not the landlord, and you get it back when you leave if there's no damage.
Renting in Australia isn't cheap. The median rent hit a record A$705 a week in July 2026, and renters typically spend about a third of their pre-tax income on it. Rents are also rising faster than wages. A quick check: if the rent you're looking at takes more than a third of your expected Australian salary before tax, it'll feel tight.
Budget for short-term accommodation while you look, as finding a rental can take weeks.
To see what rent looks like where you're moving, search listings on realestate.com.au, Domain and Rent.com.au.
For a full breakdown of bank fees, specialist providers and how to move a large sum like a house sale, read our guide to moving money abroad.
Not sure Australia is right for you?
Australia isn’t the only option. Our free relocation tool compares countries based on your job, age and priorities, and shows you where you’d fit best.
Questions about moving to Australia?
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you within one to two days.
