Skilled Visa Income Thresholds Set to Rise from 1 July 2025
If you're planning to migrate to Australia or aiming for permanent residency (PR), staying updated on visa changes is crucial. One major change coming your way is the annual increase in skilled visa income thresholds from 1 July 2025—a move that will impact many skilled workers and employers across the country.
Income Threshold Will Increase by 4.6%
In line with the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE) and as part of Australia’s ongoing Migration Strategy, skilled visa income thresholds will be indexed by 4.6% from July 2025. This ensures skilled migrants are paid equitably, keeping wage standards aligned with those of Australian citizens. Here’s how the thresholds will shift:
Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT):
From AUD 73,150 to AUD 76,515
Affects subclass 482 – Skills in Demand and subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme
Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT):
From AUD 135,000 to AUD 141,210
Affects Specialist Skills stream of subclass 482
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT):
From AUD 73,150 to AUD 76,515
Relevant for subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa and subclass 187 – RSMS
Note: These new thresholds apply only to nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2025. Existing visa holders and lodged nominations before this date will not be affected.
What This Means for Aspiring PR Applicants
With rising thresholds, now is the time to future-proof your migration journey. These changes may make it more competitive and financially demanding for future applicants, which is why boosting your PR points today can give you a serious advantage. Here’s how you can strengthen your PR profile:
Educational Achievements: Your education is a cornerstone of your PR application. The more advanced your qualification, the more points you can claim
Doctorate Degree: 20 points
Master’s/Bachelor’s Degree: 15 points
Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points
Study in Regional Australia: +5 bonus points
Note: Don’t overlook the Skills Assessment. Completing this assessment proves your qualifications match Australian standards—and grants you another 10 points.
English Proficiency: This is one of the few areas where you have complete control, and a strong score not only boosts your points but also makes you more employable in Australia.
Score 8 or above: 20 points
Score 7 or above: 10 points
Work Experience
Even one year of full-time Australian work experience can earn you 5 points.
More years—either in Australia or combined with overseas experience—can push your total up to 20 points, depending on the type and duration.
Partner Skills Assessment
Migrating with a skilled partner can work in your favour. If your partner is under 45, has competent English, and passes a skills assessment, you could gain an extra 10 PR points.
Age Factor
Your age at the time of application plays a major role. If you're in the 25–32 age bracket, you're in the sweet spot, earning the maximum 30 points. This reflects the government's preference for younger, long-term contributors.
Government Nomination
Securing a state or territory government nomination, such as through Visa Subclass 190, adds an extra 5 points. This shows that your skills are in demand in a specific region and makes your application stronger.
What You Can Do Now
The increase in skilled visa thresholds is more than just a policy shift—it's a wake-up call for aspiring migrants to take immediate and informed action. Whether you're applying for the first time or planning to switch to PR, preparation is key.
Our migration consultants can help you:
Evaluate your current PR score
Advise on the right visa subclass
Create a tailored plan to maximize points
Stay compliant with evolving requirements
Our experienced migration consultants at Think Visa are here to guide you through the latest regulations, ensure compliance, and boost your chances of a successful visa application.
