Thinking about moving from Nigeria to 🇦🇺 Australia in 2026?

One of the biggest questions Nigerians ask is:

“How much money do I really need to make this dream happen?”

Well… the answer is not just a number — it’s a breakdown of REAL costs you must know before you start the process.

Let’s break it down clearly — visa costs, proof of funds, living expenses, travel, and unexpected bills.

🧾 1. Visa Application Fees — Preparation Starts Here

Everyone must start with visa fees. These are the official charges you cannot avoid.

Depending on your visa type in 2026:

✔ Skilled immigration: several thousand dollars
✔ Student visa (Subclass 500): ~AUD 2,000 for the main applicant
✔ Partner and family members: extra charges on top

Tip: If you apply and your visa is refused, you do not always get your money back — so accuracy matters.

🪙 2. Proof of Funds — The Bank Balance Criteria

This is where many Nigerians freeze with fear — because Australia’s Department of Home Affairs wants to see you have the money, not just say it.

Here’s what you generally need to show:

🧑‍🎓 Student Visa

You must demonstrate you have enough money in your bank account to cover:

✔ Living expenses for 12 months: ~AUD 29,710
✔ Travel/relocation: ~AUD 2,500 – 3,000
✔ Tuition fees: Depends on your course — can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000+ per year

👉 That means a student alone typically needs AUD 50,000 – 70,000+ accessible before visa approval.

👤 Skilled Migration

You need funds for:
✔ Skills assessments
✔ English tests
✔ Visa fees
✔ Health and character checks
✔ Relocation & first months’ costs
Many migrants suggest having at least AUD 10,000 – 15,000 while you settle in.

Note: The government looks at genuine access — not just a big balance that appeared yesterday.

✈️ 3. Travel and Relocation — Getting There

Leaving Nigeria isn’t free.

✔ Flight tickets: Around AUD 1,200 – 2,500+ (return or one-way depends on airline and booking time)

✔ Shipping furniture/belongings: AUD 2,000 – 10,000+ if you move a lot of stuff

Many people underestimate these costs — and regret it later.

🏡 4. First Months — Where Reality Hits

Australia is not cheap — especially at the beginning.

Here’s a rough idea of monthly costs:

🛏 Rent (shared)
– Small city share: ~AUD 400–800/week
(About AUD 1,600–3,200/month)

🍲 Groceries & food: AUD 150–250/week
🚆 Transport: AUD 50–80/month
💊 Health insurance/basic cover (if needed): ~AUD 100–150/month

👉 Many migrants recommend having at least AUD 10,000–15,000 saved before landing to cover the first 2–3 months.

🧠 So What’s the REAL Total You Should Plan For?

Here’s a simplified practical view:

👍 If You’re Going as a Student

Total before arrival:
✔ Visa fees
✔ First year tuition
✔ Living cost proof (~AUD 29,710)
✔ Travel + miscellaneous

👉 Minimum Estimated Total: AUD 50,000 – 70,000+
(In Naira, that’s roughly ₦12M – ₦17M+ depending on exchange rate and tuition)

💼 If You’re a Skilled Worker

✔ Visa and assessment fees
✔ IELTS/PTE & health checks
✔ Relocation and 3–6 months living costs
👉 Minimum Estimated Total: AUD 15,000 – 30,000+
(That’s about ₦3.5M – ₦7M+ depending on exchange and savings use)

👨‍👩‍👧 If You’re Moving With Family

Everything multiplies — more dependents means more money to show, more travel, and stronger financial requirements.

🧨 The Truth Nobody Tells You

💰 It’s not just about the number.
It’s about showing genuine funds — months of bank history, proof of source, and consistency.

📊 Many Nigerians underestimate:
✔ Tuition fees
✔ Living costs
✔ Insurance
✔ Initial settlement buffer

…and then panic when immigration asks for more records.

🎯 Final Words

Moving to Australia in 2026 is possible — but it’s not cheap and not automatic.

The real cost depends on:
✔ Your visa type
✔ Whether you’re alone or with family
✔ Your lifestyle and city choice
✔ How smart you plan your funds

But one thing’s clear:

If you prepare early and save strategically, it becomes real — not just a dream.