As of 1 July 2026, changes to migration policy came into effect. The key changes affect visa application fees and income thresholds.
Visa Application Fees
Every year, the Australian government increases visa application fees by approximately 3%, in line with CPI indexation. This year is different as employer-sponsored visas including the subclass 482 and subclass 186 and partner visas have had a much more significant fee increase than the standard 3%.
The Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa saw an increase in application fees in March where they doubled without warning.
Visa applications lodged prior to 1 July 2026 do not incur the application fee increase.
To view a list of visa application fees and charges, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Income Threshold Increases
Every year the skilled migration income threshold increases to align with current Australian wage growth. These increases ensure that foreign workers on temporary skilled visas are paid at market rates and that the local labour market is protected from wage undercutting.
The Temporary Skills Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) and Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) will increase from AUD$76,515 to AUD$79,423.
The Special Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) will increase from AUD$141,210 to AUD$146,576.
Additional Changes Taking Place From 1 July
As announced in the federal budget in March, permanent migration planning levels remain the same for the 2026 – 27 financial year. However, approximately 70% of places will be allocated to onshore migrants with the remaining places expected to be allocated to highly skilled migrants.
While these changes have taken place to coincide with the new financial year in Australia, the Australian Government may announce more changes throughout the year. Visa Solutions Australia will provide updates as they occur.
To learn more about the changes to migration or any aspect of migration, contact the team of experienced registered migration agents at Visa Solutions Australia.
