The Australian Government has announced an important update to employer-sponsored skilled visas, including Visa 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) and Visa 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme). Accordingly, from 01 July 2026, the minimum income threshold will be increased under an annual indexation mechanism.

New minimum salary thresholds for the 2026–2027 financial year

The new income thresholds will apply to applications lodged from 01 July 2026 as follows:

• CSIT (Core Skills Income Threshold): increased from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,499
• SSIT (Specialist Skills Income Threshold): increased from AUD 141,210 to AUD 146,717

These thresholds will apply to all nomination applications under Visa 482 and Visa 186 submitted from that date onward.

Impact of the income threshold increase

The increase in minimum income thresholds will directly impact both employers and international workers.

For employers, higher salary requirements mean a larger budget is needed when sponsoring overseas workers. Some roles may no longer be eligible for sponsorship if they cannot meet the new salary levels.

For workers, candidates with higher skills and experience will have a greater advantage, while those with lower salary offers may face more difficulty meeting visa requirements.

Who should pay attention

• Applicants preparing to apply for Visa 482 or Visa 186
• Employers planning to sponsor international workers
• Candidates currently negotiating employment contracts in Australia

Advice for preparing your application

If you are planning to apply for a visa, consider lodging your application before 01 July 2026 to take advantage of the current thresholds. At the same time, carefully review the salary in your contract to ensure compliance with the new requirements if applying after this date.

Preparing a complete and accurate application, while staying up to date with policy changes, will help increase your chances of visa approval and minimize risks.

The increase in income thresholds for Visa 482 and Visa 186 is a significant change in Australia’s immigration policy in 2026. This adjustment aims to ensure salaries align with the labor market and improve the quality of the workforce.

Both workers and employers should proactively stay informed and prepare accordingly to avoid disruptions to their plans to work and settle in Australia.

Source: WorkingIn