What Does It Cost to Move from the US to Australia?

Visa Costs

Australian visa application charges from 1 July 2026 include AUD 6,235 for the National Innovation visa (subclass 858), AUD 4,015 for the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), AUD 6,135 for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), AUD 11,710 for the combined onshore Partner visa application (subclasses 820/801), and AUD 2,500 for the Student visa (subclass 500). Additional-applicant charges and other costs vary. Check the Home Affairs pricing estimator immediately before lodging.

The National Innovation visa is an invitation-only permanent visa for people with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. It is not a general lower-cost option for technology or STEM workers.

Pre-Move Documentation Costs

The documents and assessments depend on the pathway. Verified September 2026 skills-assessment fees include AUD 1,498 for an ACS general assessment, AUD 1,034 for a standard Engineers Australia CDR assessment and AUD 514 for a CPA Australia offshore assessment. Health examinations must use an approved panel physician. Home Affairs publishes the police-certificate requirements by country; applicants should use the official FBI process where a US federal check is requested.

Flights

Airfares and baggage charges vary by route, date and fare class. Compare current fares and included baggage before deciding between extra luggage and freight.

Shipping

Freight costs depend on origin, destination, volume, packing, insurance and biosecurity treatment. Obtain written door-to-door quotes. Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture publish the rules for personal effects and biosecurity; US electrical equipment also needs to be checked for Australian voltage and frequency compatibility.

First-Month Settlement Costs

Allow for temporary accommodation, a rental bond, rent in advance, transport, utilities and basic household goods. Prices and tenancy rules vary by state and suburb, so check live listings and the relevant state tenancy authority.

Ongoing US Tax Costs

US citizens and resident aliens abroad are generally subject to the same federal filing rules as those in the United States, and worldwide income counts when deciding whether a return is required. Foreign-account reporting and the treatment of Australian superannuation or investments depend on the person’s circumstances. The IRS publishes the rules; cross-border tax advice may be appropriate for complex cases.

Money Transfer Costs

Compare the amount of Australian dollars delivered after all fees and the exchange-rate margin. Bank and specialist-provider pricing changes by currency, amount and transfer method. Keep a US account only where it fits your banking and tax needs, and check the receiving bank’s current requirements.

Total Budget Summary

There is no reliable standard total for a US-to-Australia move. Build a dated budget from the current visa charge, any required skills assessment or English evidence, health and police checks, live travel and freight quotes, current rental listings and any cross-border tax advice you need.

How to Reduce Costs

Compare written freight quotes on the same door-to-door basis and check whether replacing bulky goods costs less than shipping them. Compare foreign-exchange providers using the final AUD delivered. Use current government pages before paying visa or assessment charges.

Next Steps

Read our US to Australia overview for the big picture, and our visa options guide to identify your pathway.

Our money transfer guide covers how to move your funds efficiently.

For first-week practicalities, see the first week in Australia checklist.

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Related Resources

- US to Australia: Complete 2026 Guide
- US to Australia Visa Options
- Best Way to Transfer Money to Australia
- How Much Money Should I Bring to Australia?
- Compare International Removalists
- First Week in Australia Checklist
- Superannuation Explained for New Migrants
- Australian Rental Application Guide

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Is the National Innovation visa a general pathway for US technology workers?

No. It is invitation-only and requires an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement.

Do US citizens still file US tax returns after moving to Australia?

US citizens and resident aliens abroad are generally subject to the same filing rules as people in the United States. Filing depends on income, filing status, age and other circumstances, and worldwide income is considered.

How should I estimate rent before moving?

Check live listings for the property type and suburb you are considering, then apply the bond and rent-in-advance rules published by the relevant state or territory tenancy authority.

Should I ship a US car to Australia?

Check the vehicle against the Australian import-approval and state registration rules before paying for freight. Left-hand-drive configuration and compliance work can make import impractical for many vehicles.