Synopsis: Australia is increasing income thresholds for Skilled and Work Visas from July 1, 2025, affecting multiple visa subclasses. Driven by AWOTE indexation, the rise ensures fair pay and labour protection. This blog explains the changes, who they affect, and what employers and applicants need to do before the deadline.
A storm is brewing in Australia’s immigration landscape. As of 1 July 2025, new income thresholds will apply to Australia Skilled Visa and Australia Work Visa programs—leaving applicants and employers scrambling to meet the rising bar. Will you meet the mark or fall behind?
Topics Discussed:
- Updated Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas
- Visas Impacted by the New Rules
- Key Implications for Employers
- Protection Against Wage Exploitation
Updated Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas
Driven by AWOTE indexation, income thresholds will rise by 4.6%. For example, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increases from AUD $73,150 to AUD $76,515, and the Specialist Skills Threshold jumps to AUD $141,210.
Visas Impacted by the New Rules
These changes affect major Australia Skilled Work Visa subclasses including:
- Subclass 482 (Core & Specialist Skills)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
- Subclass 494 & 187 (Regional Sponsorship)
Key Implications for Employers
Employers must ensure new nominations meet either the revised threshold or the market salary—whichever is higher. Applications lodged before 1 July 2025 are exempt.
Conclusion:
This move ensures fair pay for skilled migrants and aligns with Australian wage growth. If you’re aiming for an Australia Work Visa, now’s the time to act—before the gate lifts higher.
