<blockquote rel="crizzy">Hi, I know this quiet off the topic..but somehow relevant. I am planning to try my luck (assessement) next year, how much do I really need to prepare up to the last step (VISA grant) assuming I pass the assessment. I am a CPA and currently residing in Dubai.
Your response will be very much appreciated.</blockquote>
Hi @crizzy. Visa fees and visa requirements are changing every year. You can check the current visa charges for general skilled migrants on this link
http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/pdf/990i.pdf
as side from that, below were the costs/charges that i have incurred (but it may have increased na):
CPA Australia Assessment Fee -$475AU ngaun, pro nung time ko $350 lang yata yan (there are other migration assessment body aside from CPA Australia)
Migration Agent (pero pede ka naman di na kumuha ng agent) - $3000AU
IELTS (british council) 850 AED
NBI Clearance (if required) - i think 100AED sa Phil Consul sa Dubai. advise ko magpakuha ka na lang sa pinas or pag umuwi ka kumuha
Medical Fee - 780AED sa Dubai London Clinic - DFC branch
UAE Police clearance - 150AED ( naka 3 ako kasi bilis maexpire kc 3 mos validity lng. Kumuha pa kasi ko bgo ako umalis dun, just in case)
Visa Stamping - Free. Australian Consulate's office is at Bur Juman Business Tower
Every year nagbabago yan, but just to give you an idea. Good luck!