Whoops! Did someone say salary increases? Yes, the Australian Government rolled out major updates for the 2026–27 migration year. If you are sponsoring global talent or aiming for permanent residency australia, pay attention right now.
Threshold numbers jumped. Application fees climbed. Rules shifted.
Let's break down the exact numbers without the bureaucratic noise.
The 2026-27 Salary Thresholds at a Glance
Whoops, missed the memo on the exact figures? Here they are.
From 1 July 2026, the Department of Home Affairs implemented new benchmark figures for sponsored workers.
- CSIT & TSMIT: Increased to AUD $79,423.
- SSIT: Increased to AUD $146,576.
- FWHIT: Increased to AUD $190,100.
- Subclass 186 Age Exemption Threshold: Aligned at AUD $190,100.
These baselines protect local labor standards. They also dictate who qualifies for temporary and permanent pathways.
What Do These Numbers Mean for TSS 482 & Subclass 186?
Let's keep it simple.
Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand Visa)
- Core Skills Stream: Must pay at least AUD $79,423 or the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR), whichever is higher.
- Specialist Skills Stream: Must pay at least AUD $146,576 or the AMSR.
Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
- Temporary Residence Transition & Direct Entry: Nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2026 must meet the new AUD $79,423 threshold.
- Age Exemption: High-earning applicants earning at or above AUD $190,100 can access age exemptions for the subclass 186 visa.
Visa Application Charges & Migration Program Boosts
Budget updates brought financial surprises. Visa application charges jumped by roughly 25%.
- Subclass 482 Visa Fee: Now $4,015.
- Subclass 186 Visa Fee: Now $6,140.
On the bright side? The overall 2026–27 Migration Program cap sits at 185,000 places. Even better for employers, the employer-sponsored stream expanded to 58,040 places. More slots mean faster processing for vital industries.
Grandfathering & The AMSR Rule
Did you lodge your nomination before 1 July 2026?
Relax. Existing nominations lodged before that date fall under grandfathering provisions. They get assessed against previous thresholds.
Furthermore, the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) rule remains untouched. You cannot underpay a migrant worker just because they hit the bare minimum threshold. If the market rate for the role sits at $95,000, you pay $95,000. Full stop.
Practical Checklist for Employers and Applicants
Need a quick action plan? Follow this checklist:
- Audit current base salaries: Ensure all nominated employees meet or exceed the new floors.
- Verify AMSR data: Gather up-to-date market salary evidence before lodging.
- Check lodgement dates: Confirm exact submission timelines to benefit from grandfathering if applicable.
- Review visa budgets: Factor in the 25% fee hike for 482 and 186 applications.
- Consult a professional: Avoid costly refusals. Speak with a qualified migration agent adelaide today.
Learn More
Navigating complex employer sponsorship rules requires precision. Do not leave your visa approval to chance.
Book a consultation with our migration team now to secure your pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new TSMIT for Australia in 2026-27?
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) and Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) increased to AUD $79,423 effective 1 July 2026.
Do existing 482 visa holders need a pay rise?
No. Salary threshold increases are not retrospective. Existing visa holders and nominations lodged prior to 1 July 2026 remain assessed against previous thresholds.
How does the Subclass 186 age exemption work with the new threshold?
Applicants earning at or above the Fair Work High Income Threshold of AUD $190,100 can access age exemptions when applying for the subclass 186 employer-sponsored permanent visa.
Are visa application fees increasing?
Yes. Visa application charges increased by approximately 25%. Subclass 482 fees are now $4,015, and Subclass 186 fees are now $6,140.