If you’re thinking about applying for a skilled visa to work in Australia, there’s an important change you need to know about. Starting in November 2025, the income threshold for skilled workers applying for certain types of visas will increase to $73,000. This new rule will affect a lot of professionals looking to live and work in Australia. In this post, we’ll break down what this means for you, why it’s happening, and how it might impact your plans.
What Is the Skilled Visa Income Threshold and Why It Matters?
The skilled visa income threshold is the minimum salary level that applicants must meet to qualify for certain work visas in Australia. This salary figure is important because it helps the government decide which jobs and workers they want to prioritize. Higher-skilled jobs typically require a higher income to ensure that workers are not only needed but also financially self-sufficient.
Right now, this threshold is set lower, but from November 2025, it will be raised to $73,000. This change means that anyone applying for a skilled visa under certain visa categories will need to prove that they’re earning or will be earning this amount or more to be eligible.
When Does the New Skilled Visa Income Threshold Apply?
The new threshold of $73,000 applies to applicants seeking to qualify for a skilled visa starting in November 2025. If you’re planning to apply for a visa after this date, this new income threshold will be a factor in your application. So if your income (or potential job offer) doesn’t meet the new requirement, you may not be able to qualify for the visa.
It’s important to know that the salary cap applies to certain skilled visa categories, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), which are popular among foreign workers.
How Does This Work – Explained Simply
To put it simply, if you’re applying for a skilled visa after November 2025, the government will look at your salary to see if it meets or exceeds $73,000. This means that you’ll either need to have a job lined up that offers this salary, or you’ll need to prove that you will be earning that amount once you start working.
For example, if you’re a software engineer looking to move to Australia, and your job offer is for $70,000, you would fall short of the new threshold. In that case, you’d need to either negotiate for a higher salary or find another pathway that doesn’t rely on meeting this income cap.
Common Mistakes With the New Income Threshold and How to Avoid Them
As the new threshold approaches, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Not checking salary requirements early enough: Make sure you know the income threshold well in advance of your visa application. Waiting until the last minute can leave you scrambling to adjust your plans.
- Assuming the threshold applies to all visas: Not every skilled visa will have the $73,000 salary requirement. Some visas, like those for certain regional areas or for specific professions, may have different thresholds. Always check the requirements for your specific visa type.
- Relying on your current salary: If you’re already working in Australia on a temporary visa and your income is lower than $73,000, this might affect your renewal process. Be sure to plan ahead and either negotiate a raise or find a job that meets the threshold.
- Underestimating the impact on dependents: If your visa allows you to bring dependents, you need to prove you can support them financially. Make sure your salary meets both the minimum threshold for your visa and the requirements for your dependents.
Best Tips to Make the Most of the New Skilled Visa Income Rule
With this change on the horizon, here are a few tips to help you navigate the new requirements:
- Negotiate a higher salary: If you’re in the process of applying for a job, consider negotiating a salary that meets or exceeds the $73,000 threshold. This can give you a stronger application and make the visa process smoother.
- Look for jobs that meet the threshold: If you haven’t yet secured a job offer, start searching for roles that are more likely to meet or exceed the income cap. Certain high-demand jobs in industries like tech, engineering, and healthcare tend to offer salaries above this threshold.
- Consider other visa options: If the skilled visa income threshold is a hurdle, explore other pathways like the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS), which may have different requirements, or look into student visas if you’re still completing your qualifications.
- Plan ahead: If your current visa doesn’t meet the new threshold, start planning your next steps early. Whether that’s upgrading your skills, finding a higher-paying job, or applying for a visa with a lower income cap, being proactive will help you stay on track.
The Latest Updates on the Skilled Visa Income Threshold
This decision to raise the skilled visa income threshold to $73,000 is part of Australia’s ongoing efforts to ensure that they attract highly skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy. While this change is expected to impact many foreign workers looking to migrate, it also reflects Australia’s increasing demand for talent in certain industries.
This new policy is in line with broader efforts to streamline the migration process and target skilled workers who can fill key positions in Australia’s workforce. However, it’s also a response to the rising cost of living and the desire to ensure that incoming workers are financially stable and able to support themselves.
Conclusion
Starting in November 2025, the new $73,000 income threshold for skilled visa applicants will play a big role in determining who is eligible to work in Australia. If you’re planning on applying, it’s crucial to make sure your income meets this new requirement. Take the time to research visa options, negotiate salaries, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth application process. By staying informed and proactive, you can increase your chances of successfully moving to Australia for work.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new $73,000 income threshold take effect?
The new threshold will apply starting in November 2025 for skilled visa applications.
What types of visas are affected by the new income threshold?
The new threshold applies to skilled visa categories like the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189).
Why is Australia raising the skilled visa income threshold?
The increase to $73,000 reflects the government’s aim to attract highly skilled workers who can contribute to the Australian economy while ensuring they are financially self-sufficient.
How can I make sure I meet the new income threshold?
If you’re applying for a skilled visa, make sure you have a job offer or employment contract that offers a salary of at least $73,000, or look for roles that are likely to meet this income level.
Can I apply for a skilled visa if my job doesn’t meet the new salary cap?
If your job offer doesn’t meet the new threshold, you may need to negotiate a higher salary, find another job, or explore other visa pathways.
