Australia Raises Skilled Visa Salary Threshold New Rules Take Effect July 1, 2025
Australia has announced a major change in its skilled visa program that will affect thousands of migrants, employers, and international professionals. Starting July 1, 2025, the minimum salary requirement for skilled foreign workers will increase a move designed to protect wages and attract higher-quality talent.
What’s Changing?
• The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will rise from AUD 70,000 to AUD 73,150 annually.
• This increase applies to all new applications under the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) and other employer-sponsored skilled visa streams.
• Employers must now offer at least this amount to overseas workers to qualify for sponsorship.
Why This Matters
The Australian government says the change is meant to:
• Ensure that migrant workers are paid fairly, in line with local standards.
• Prevent exploitation by employers offering lower-than-average wages.
• Attract highly skilled professionals in fields like healthcare, IT, and engineering.
What Is TSMIT?
TSMIT is the minimum salary a foreign worker must earn before they can be granted a skilled visa. It does not include bonuses, superannuation, or other benefits.
This threshold is reviewed annually and is now aligned with the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Average Weekly Earnings data.
Who Will Be Affected?
• New visa applicants applying from July 1, 2025
• Employers sponsoring overseas workers must update contracts to reflect the new threshold
• Skilled workers in occupations like nursing, IT, construction, and education
If you’re an aspiring skilled migrant or employer:
• Check if your occupation qualifies for sponsorship under Australia’s skilled list.
• Ensure salary offers meet the AUD 73,150 minimum from July 1.
• Prepare supporting documents showing market-rate compensation and job duties.
This salary adjustment is part of Australia’s broader push to improve the integrity of its migration system and support a high-skilled workforce. It may also reduce the number of lower-wage applicants and improve outcomes for both migrants and the economy.