July is always a big month for migration. This year is no different.
The Australian government just rolled out significant updates. Many fees have gone up. Income requirements are higher. Some age limits have changed too.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry. We've broken down the essentials for you.
The Big One: Visa Application Charges (VAC)
Visa fees just took a jump. Most subclasses saw an increase of about 25%. This applies to applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026.
Here are the key figures:
- Partner Visas: Now cost $11,710.
- Student Visas (Subclass 500): Increased to $2,500.
- Subclass 186 Visa: Base fee is now $6,140.
Oops, that’s a bit of a sting to the wallet. If you were planning to lodge soon, make sure your budget is ready. These increases help fund the faster processing times we're all hoping for.
New Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas
Income requirements have shifted. This affects australian skilled migration and employer sponsored visa australia pathways.
Core Skills and TSMIT
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) and the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) are now unified.
- New Threshold: $79,423 per year.
This affects the TSS visa 482 (Core Skills stream) and the subclass 186 visa.
Specialist Skills Threshold (SSIT)
For high-end specialists, the bar is even higher.
- New SSIT: $146,576 per year.
Fair Work High Income Threshold (FWHIT)
The FWHIT has increased too.
- New FWHIT: $190,100.
This matters for certain age exemptions. If you earn above this, you might bypass age limits for some permanent residency australia pathways.
Need a hand figuring out which threshold applies to your role? Chat with us today.
Working Holiday (Subclass 417) Updates
Great news for some! The age limit for the Subclass 417 visa has increased to 35 for specific passport holders.
If you are from these countries, you can now apply until you turn 36:
- Cyprus
- Finland
- Germany
- Republic of Korea (South Korea)
A critical change to note:
Age is now assessed at the time of lodgement.
Previously, it could sometimes be assessed later. Now, you must be under the age limit the moment you hit "submit." This applies to both the 417 and 462 visas.
Administrative and Technical Changes
It's not just the visas. The costs of fighting a decision have gone up too.
- ART Fees: Administrative Review Tribunal fees have increased.
- Court Fees: Federal Court fees for migration matters are also higher.
- ImmiAccount Limit: You can now only attempt to import an application into your ImmiAccount 3 times.
Wait, only 3 tries? Yes. Make sure your details are 100% correct before you click. Mistakes can be a headache.
Why These Changes Matter
Australia is moving toward a more tech-driven, high-value migration system. The goal is clarity and speed. But it comes with a price tag.
Whether you are looking for a subclass 189 visa, a skilled work regional visa 491, or exploring a DAMA visa or SA DAMA Visa, the rules are tighter.
If you are a student finishing your degree, keep an eye on the graduate visa australia changes too. Every subclass is feeling the shift.
Book a Consultation
Need help with your next step? Book a consultation
Learn More
Need help making sense of these changes? We’re here to help.
Book an appointment with Skillage Nimbus for clear advice and practical next steps.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is the new fee for a Partner visa?
As of 1 July 2026, the Partner visa application fee is $11,710.
Has the TSMIT increased?
Yes. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) is now $79,423.
Can I still apply for a Working Holiday visa if I’m 32?
Yes, if you hold a passport from Cyprus, Finland, Germany, or South Korea. For most other countries, the limit remains 30.
How does the Fair Work High Income Threshold affect me?
It primarily affects age exemptions for employer-sponsored permanent residency. The new threshold is $190,100.
Where can I find a migration agent in Adelaide?
Skillage Nimbus provides expert advice as a leading migration agent adelaide. We help clients locally and globally.
Are there changes to the Subclass 189 visa?
While the core points system remains, the general visa application charges have increased by approximately 25%.
What is a DAMA visa?
A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) allows regional employers to sponsor workers with some concessions. We specialize in the SA DAMA Visa for South Australian businesses.
Take the Next Step
Migration is a big investment. Don't risk it on outdated info.
We are here to help you bridge the gap. Whether it’s university shortlisting, a TSS visa 482, or moving from a graduate visa australia to permanent residency australia, we have the expertise.
Contact Skillage Nimbus today.
- Visit: www.skillage.com.au
- Email: info@skillage.com.au
- Expertise you can trust.