The Australian Government has announced an increase in income threshold requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482), effective from 1 July 2025. This change also impacts Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) and subclass Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494) nominations.

 

New Income Thresholds Effective 1 July 2025

• • $76,515 increasing from $73,150 for subclass 482 nominations (Core Skills Stream), subclass 186 and 494 nominations

• • $141,210 increasing from $135,000 for subclass 482 nominations (Specialist Skill Stream) and subclass 186 nomination (transitioning from subclass 482 under the Specialist Skills Stream)

Employers lodging new Subclass 482, 494 or Subclass 186 nomination applications on or after 1 July 2025 must ensure the salary for the nominated role meets the new minimum or the annual market salary rate (AMSR)—whichever is higher.

 

Who Will Be Affected by the Changes?

 

✅ Applies To:

• • All new nomination applications submitted on or after 1 July 2025.

• • Nominations under both Subclass 482, 494 and Subclass 186 visas.

❌ Does Not Apply To:

• • Nominations lodged before 1 July 2025 (even if not finalized by that date).

• • Existing Subclass 482 visa holders—they will not be impacted by the threshold increase.

Urgent Action for Employers:  Lodging Before the Deadline

 

Employers planning to nominate positions with a salary below $76,515 / $141,210 and requiring Labour Market Testing (LMT) should act immediately.

To meet LMT requirements:

• • Job advertisements must be posted for a full 28-day period before the nomination can be lodged.

• • This means advertising should begin no later than late May 2025 to meet the timeline.

Delaying the job ad could result in missing the 1 July deadline, forcing compliance with the higher threshold.

 

Prepare Now for the 2025 Visa Threshold Changes

 

The increase to income thresholds reflects Australia’s focus on attracting and retaining highly skilled workers. Employers are advised to review salary offers, job advertisements, and pending nomination timelines to ensure compliance.

If you’re unsure whether these changes apply to your situation or need assistance with the visa nomination process, contact us today to discuss your options