Minimum salary thresholds for employer-sponsored visas rise from 1 July 2026, requiring employers to offer higher pay to overseas workers under subclass 494, 482 and 186 visas.
The Federal Government updated these income thresholds using the latest wage data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The changes apply to nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026. Applications submitted before this date remain under the current thresholds.
Under the new rules:
- Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) and Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) rise to $79,499.
- Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) increases to $146,717.
The TSMIT applies to the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494) visa.
The CSIT applies to the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa (Core Skills stream) and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa.
The SSIT applies to the subclass 482 visa (Specialist Skills stream), designed for highly skilled, higher-paid roles.
Current and New Salary Thresholds
| Income Threshold | Current (1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026) | From 1 July 2026 |
| Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) | $76,515 | $79,499 |
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | $76,515 | $79,499 |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) | $141,210 | $146,717 |
What This Means for Employers
Employers planning to sponsor overseas workers should review salary offers and workforce planning before 1 July 2026.
Lodging eligible subclass 494, 482 or 186 nominations before the new financial year may allow employers to rely on the current threshold. Nominations lodged after 1 July 2026 must meet the updated higher thresholds.
Employers should ensure proposed salaries meet both the income thresholds and the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) to comply with sponsorship rules and avoid delays in visa processing. The AMSR reflects what an Australian worker would normally earn in the same role and location, ensuring overseas workers are fairly compensated.
How We Can Help
At SALIA Lawyers & Associates, we help workers navigate employer-sponsored visa options and guide them through the application process with their sponsoring employer. We help clients understand eligibility requirements, review salary offers and ensure applications meet government requirements.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
