Major Changes in Australian Migration “New Visa Fees, Higher Salary Thresholds, and Processing Delays”
As of July 1, 2025 Australia’s immigration system has recently undergone substantial revisions, introducing several important changes that will affect employers and applicants. These changes include significant increases in visa application charges, higher income thresholds for skilled visas, and potential delays in processing times for certain visa subclasses. With these adjustments, the Australian government aims to better align its immigration policies with current economic conditions and workforce needs.
Below are key changes:
1) Increased Visa Application Charges (VAC)
Australia has implemented significant increases to its Visa Application Charges (VACs) across various visa categories. This is part of an effort to streamline the migration process, manage rising administrative costs, and ensure the sustainability of the country’s immigration system. These changes will affect applicants across a broad range of visa types, including skilled migration, student visas, partner visas, and more. Below is a breakdown of the key visa categories and their updated charges.
Student Visa (subclass 500): Increased from $1,600 to $2,000.
Partner Visas (subclasses 820/801 & 309/100): Increased from $9,095 to $9,365.
Skilled Visas (subclasses 189, 190 & 491): Increased from $4,765 to $4,910.
Skills in Demand (subclass 482)-Increased from $3,155 to $3,210
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)-Increased from $4,570 to $4,910.
2) Higher Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas
As part of the recent migration policy updates, Australia has introduced higher income thresholds for various visa categories, particularly those related to skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas. The higher income requirements aim to attract individuals with higher earning potential and skills in demand, ensuring that migrants contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth. For applicants seeking permanent residency through employer sponsorship or skilled migration, demonstrating a higher income is now not only a reflection of their financial capability but also an indication of their potential contribution to Australia’s workforce. These changes are expected to prioritise those who possess skills that align with Australia's economic needs, while also ensuring that applicants have the financial means to sustain themselves without relying heavily on government assistance. Below is the change in income threshold for key visa categories:
Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): Increased from $73,150 to $76,515.
Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT): Increased from $135,000 to $141,210.
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT): Increased from $73,150 to $76,515.
3) Potential Delays in Processing Times
In addition to changes in application fees and income thresholds, the Australian Government has also acknowledged potential delays in the processing times for certain visa subclasses. These delays are primarily due to the rising volume of applications, combined with enhanced scrutiny and more stringent eligibility assessments These delays are expected to affect high-demand categories, such as skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas, as application volumes continue to rise. The implementation of these delays is intended to ensure that each application is thoroughly reviewed and processed in line with the updated immigration criteria, including stricter documentation requirements and higher income thresholds. Consequently, prospective migrants should plan accordingly, allowing for additional time in their migration journey and adjusting expectations around timelines. Patience and careful preparation will be key to navigating this more prolonged application process.
What Do These Changes Mean for Employers and Applicants?
For employers, these changes highlight the need for careful planning and compliance. The increased visa application charges, combined with the revised income thresholds, will affect the financial and operational aspects of sponsoring skilled workers. Employers should review their salary structures and recruitment strategies to ensure they meet the new criteria and anticipate the potential impact of extended processing times on their staffing plans.
For applicants, understanding the revised visa charges and income requirements is vital to ensure a smooth application process. By submitting applications early and being mindful of the increased costs, applicants can avoid delays and ensure they meet the new thresholds. Proactive planning will help both employers and applicants navigate the changes with ease and efficiency.
Conclusion:
The recent changes to Australia’s immigration system represent a pivotal shift, with important implications for both employers and applicants. Increased visa application charges, higher income thresholds for skilled visas, and potential delays in processing times will require careful consideration and planning. For legal professionals, staying informed about these updates will enable you to provide clients with timely, accurate advice, ensuring they remain compliant with the latest immigration policies.
If you require further clarification on how these changes impact your clients or need assistance navigating the updated immigration requirements, please feel free to contact us.
Questions? Email ask@visamigo.com for a chat.
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DISCLAIMER: Important notice for all our social media followers as well as website readers. Content shared here by Visamigo Lawyers and its affiliates is not to be considered as immigration or legal advice. It's intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance. This material offers general insights (accurate at the time of posting, subject to updates) and is not exhaustive. Prior to any application, it's recommended you consult an Australian Lawyer for personalised advice. Your journey matters, so ensure you're properly informed.
