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Victoria's New ROI Fee: What You Need to Know About Refunds
Victoria has introduced new fees for its 2026–27 Skilled Visa Nomination Program, affecting subclass 190 and 491 applicants.
The Registration of Interest (ROI) fee is AUD 60, or AUD 66 including GST for applicants in Australia.
But what happens if you pay the fee and never receive an invitation?
Victoria's ROI and nomination application fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.
When Can You Get a Refund?
According to Victoria's official refund policy, refunds may be considered in three circumstances:
- Overcharging: You were charged more than the applicable fee. Only the incorrectly charged amount may be refunded.
- Service unavailable: The Victorian Government cannot provide the service, or it is no longer available.
- Special circumstances: The government determines that a refund is appropriate.
Refunds are not automatic and remain subject to the applicable policy.
When Will You Generally Not Receive a Refund?
A refund will not ordinarily be granted simply because:
- Your ROI does not receive a nomination invitation.
- Your nomination application is refused.
- You withdraw your ROI or nomination application.
- You change your mind after paying.
- Your application contains incomplete or inaccurate information.
- You create multiple Live in Melbourne accounts and pay additional fees.
- You enter an incorrect location and are charged GST incorrectly.
Paying the ROI fee does not guarantee an invitation or nomination approval.
What Happens If You Withdraw and Resubmit?
The ROI fee is charged once per program year.
If you withdraw your ROI and submit another within the same program year, you will not need to pay the ROI fee again.
However, a new nomination application fee applies each time you submit a nomination application.
For 2026–27, the nomination application fee is AUD 180, or AUD 198 including GST.
How Do You Request a Refund?
Refund requests must be submitted through the designated process on the Live in Melbourne website, including payment details, reasons and supporting evidence.
If approved, refunds are returned only to the original payment method and payer, including where a migration agent or another third party made the payment.
Key Takeaways
- ROI fees are generally non-refundable.
- Not receiving an invitation does not, by itself, qualify you for a refund.
- The ROI fee is charged once per program year.
- Each new nomination application requires a separate fee.
- Refunds are considered only in limited circumstances.
Planning to Apply for Victorian 190 or 491 Nomination?
Before paying the ROI fee, make sure your application is properly prepared.
Incorrect eligibility claims, outdated SkillSelect EOI details or insufficient supporting evidence could affect your nomination prospects — and your fees may not be recoverable.
At Riverwood Migration, our Australian migration lawyers can review your eligibility, assess your EOI and identify potential application risks before submission.
Avoid costly mistakes. Get professional advice before you apply.
The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.
Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer
As a regulated Australian migration law practice, Riverwood Migration provides precise, personalised advice on visa strategy, compliance, and application preparation. Speak with our expert legal team. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.
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