Effective from 1 July 2026 the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increased to $79,423.

All new nomination applications lodged from 1 July 2026 onward must meet the updated thresholds.

Existing visa holders and nominations lodged before 1 July 2026 are not affected by this change.

Updated Income Thresholds (Effective Now)

Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) increased from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,423.

Applies to nomination applications for:

• Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) – Core Skills stream.
• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).

Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) increased from AUD 141,210 to AUD 146,576.

Applies to nomination applications for Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) – Specialist Skills stream.

Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increased from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,423.

Applies to nomination applications for:

• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494).
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187).

The TSMIT and the Annual Market Salary Rate

Employers must also demonstrate that the salary being offered is the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) for that specific role. The Department of Home Affairs requires that sponsored workers are paid at least the same as an equivalent Australian worker in the same location and occupation. If the market rate for a role is $95,000, you cannot pay the sponsored worker $79,423 just because it meets the TSMIT. Conversely, if the market rate for a role is only $75,000, the nomination will likely be refused because it falls below the mandatory TSMIT, even if that salary is “fair” by local industry standards (Source: DOHA).

The new threshold does not retroactively change the salary requirements for visas that have already been granted.

However, if a worker needs to renew their visa or change employers, the new nomination must meet the $79,423 requirement.

Data reflects the standard threshold. Specific concessions may apply under certain regional agreements (DAMA).

If you need practical advice on your next steps, speak with This is Australia. Call +61 (0)7 5592 0755 or contact our team to discuss your next steps.