The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) sets the minimum annual salary that must be offered to skilled workers under Australia’s temporary work visa programs, such as the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa.
It ensures that sponsored employees are paid fairly and that wages remain competitive with the Australian labour market.
For 2025, the TSMIT has been updated to reflect current economic conditions and cost-of-living increases.
Employers must offer at least the set threshold, excluding bonuses or allowances, for a visa nomination to be approved.
Key takeaway: The TSMIT protects both migrant workers and the local job market by ensuring salaries meet fair standards.
Current TSMIT and Its Impact on Visa Applicants
The latest temporary skilled migration income threshold sits at AUD 70,000 per year, marking an increase from previous years.
This update aims to align migrant salaries with current Australian earnings and promote sustainable migration outcomes.
If you are applying for a Subclass 482 or 494 visa, your nominated position must meet or exceed this salary threshold.
Employers are also required to prove that the market salary rate for the role is not below the TSMIT. This means that even if a job pays more than the threshold, it must still reflect fair market value.
Key takeaway: You must meet or exceed the TSMIT and the market salary rate to secure a valid visa nomination.
Who Needs to Meet the TSMIT Requirement
The temporary skilled migration income threshold applies to all employer-sponsored visas, including:
- Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa
- Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
- Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa (in some transitional cases)
Both employers and applicants are responsible for ensuring the nominated salary meets TSMIT requirements.
Employers must demonstrate compliance during the nomination stage, while applicants should confirm that the proposed salary aligns with the updated rate.
Key takeaway: The TSMIT applies to most employer-sponsored visa pathways, making it a key factor in your eligibility assessment.
Why the TSMIT Was Increased
The Australian Government reviews the temporary skilled migration income threshold periodically to maintain fairness between migrant and local workers.
The increase reflects rising living costs, inflation, and the goal of ensuring that migration programs attract skilled professionals with sustainable incomes.
By increasing the threshold, the government aims to protect migrants from underpayment and to ensure that temporary skilled migration supports genuine skills shortages rather than wage suppression.
Key takeaway: The TSMIT increase supports fair pay and sustainable migration outcomes for skilled workers in Australia.
Read also: From Temporary Resident to Australian Permanent: 4 Helpful Pathways to Permanent Residency
How to Ensure You Meet the TSMIT
Before lodging your visa application, confirm that your proposed salary package meets the temporary skilled migration income threshold. Here’s what you can do:
- Check the latest rate: Always refer to the most recent TSMIT set by the government.
- Review your employment contract: Ensure your base salary (excluding bonuses or benefits) is above the TSMIT.
- Compare with market salary rates: Your employer must pay you the higher of the two amounts, either the TSMIT or the market rate for the occupation.
- Seek professional advice: A registered migration agent can review your offer to ensure compliance.
Key takeaway: Always verify that your base salary meets or exceeds both the TSMIT and the local market rate to avoid application issues.
Read also: Australia Work Visa Types and Which One Is Right for You: 10-Point Guide
What Happens If the TSMIT Isn’t Met
If your proposed salary falls below the temporary skilled migration income threshold, your employer’s nomination will not be approved, and your visa application may be refused.
This rule applies regardless of industry or occupation, with very limited exceptions.
Employers who fail to meet the threshold may also face compliance checks or penalties. It’s therefore important for both you and your sponsoring employer to understand the requirements before submitting an application.
Key takeaway: Meeting the TSMIT is mandatory. Failure to do so will result in visa refusal or employer penalties.
Could Meeting the TSMIT Be Your Ticket to a Skilled Visa?
The updated temporary skilled migration income threshold reinforces Australia’s commitment to fair pay and a sustainable skilled migration system.
If you’re planning to apply for a skilled visa, understanding the TSMIT and ensuring compliance is a key step toward a successful application.
Key takeaway: Staying informed about the TSMIT helps you prepare a stronger, compliant application for your Australian skilled visa.
Looking to Secure Your Skilled Visa in Australia?
Are you unsure if your current salary offer meets the updated temporary skilled migration income threshold?
At Unique Education and Migration, our experienced team can assess your eligibility, review your employment offer, and help you prepare a compliant visa application.
Whether you’re an employer seeking skilled talent or a professional aiming to work in Australia, we provide tailored guidance every step of the way. Contact us today to start your skilled migration journey with confidence.
