The Australian Government has increased income thresholds for employer-sponsored skilled visas, effective 1 July 2026.
Updated Income Thresholds
| Income Threshold | Previous | New (from 1 July 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | AUD $76,515 | AUD $79,423 |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) | AUD $141,200 | AUD $146,576 |
| Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) | AUD $76,515 | AUD $79,423 |
What Does This Mean?
These increases affect employers intending to sponsor overseas workers under the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) visa program and other employer-sponsored skilled visa pathways where the relevant income thresholds apply.
Employers should ensure that:
- Any new nomination lodged on or after 1 July 2026 meets the applicable updated income threshold.
- The nominated annual salary is at least equal to the relevant threshold (where applicable).
- The salary also remains consistent with the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) requirements and is not less than the salary that would be paid to an equivalent Australian worker.
Applications lodged before 1 July 2026 will generally be assessed against the thresholds that applied at the time of lodgement.
Our Recommendation
If your business is planning to sponsor overseas employees, it is important to review remuneration packages before lodging nominations to ensure compliance with the updated legislative requirements.
If you are planning to sponsor overseas workers or would like to discuss how these changes may affect your business, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Contact Information
For more information or to discuss your position, contact John Siong, Special Counsel at Rostron Carlyle Lawyers at j.siong@rclaw.com.au or 07 3009 8412.
Important Disclaimer: This information sheet is intended as general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the employer, occupation and individual circumstances.
