Migration Centre of Australia

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  • June 14, 2025

Skilled Visa Income Thresholds Increasing from 1 July 2025

The Australian Government will raise income thresholds for skilled visa applications by 4.6% starting 1 July 2025. This includes updates to the CSIT, TSMIT, and SSIT figures. From 1 July 2025, the skilled visa income thresholds will be updated in line with annual indexation {Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE)}. These changes impact income eligibility requirements for employer-sponsored and skilled migration programs, ensuring wage settings reflect current economic conditions and workforce needs. What’s Changing?Effective from 1 July 2025: The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) will increase to $76,515. This will impact nomination applications for the Core Skills stream of the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186). The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will increase to $76,515. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) is used for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (subclass 187) and is in line with the CSIT and subject to approval of relevant legislation. The Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) will increase to $141,210. This will impact nomination applications for the Specialist Skills stream of the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482). Impact on Labour Market Testing (LMT)Under the current legislative requirements: Labour Market Testing (LMT) advertisements must remain open for at least 4 weeks from the date of first publication. Any LMT ads published now that support nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2025 must comply with the new higher thresholds. How to Prepare✔ Ensure all new LMT advertisements reflect the updated income thresholds if the nomination will be submitted from 1 July 2025 onward.✔ Review your organisation’s pay offerings to ensure compliance with the new CSIT, TSMIT, and SSIT levels.✔ Consider adjusting advertising and recruitment timelines to avoid processing delays. Why It MattersThese changes help maintain the integrity of Australia’s skilled visa programs by ensuring that migrant workers are paid appropriately and fairly, relative to Australian market conditions. Click here: Annual indexation of skilled visa income thresholds from 1 July 2025
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  • June 14, 2025

South Australia Closes Onshore ROIs for 2024–25 Skilled Migration Program

Final applications under review; offshore EOIs remain open for nomination. South Australia has announced the closure of skilled migration Registration of Interest (ROI) applications for onshore applicants for the 2024–2025 program year. South Australia has officially closed skilled migration Registration of Interest (ROI) applications for onshore applicants for the 2024–2025 program year. Onshore ROI Closure – The ROI system for onshore applicants is now closed. Unsubmitted ROIs will be deleted. Processing Timeline – All submitted ROIs will be finalised by 30 June 2025. Program Demand – South Australia received over 16,000 onshore ROIs and 40,000+ offshore EOIs, competing for 3,800 nomination places. Offshore Opportunities Continue – Offshore candidates can still submit a SkillSelect EOI and may receive a direct invitation to apply for South Australian nomination. Next Steps for Applicants- – If you are invited, submit your nomination application promptly. – If not invited this year, you may resubmit an ROI in the 2025–26 program. Click here – South Australia Skilled Migration Website
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  • June 14, 2025

Subclass 500 Visa Update – Expanded Pathway Programs & Lower English Requirements

Instrument LIN 25/027 introduces major updates for international students applying under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). The Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Amendment (Pathway Programs) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/027) officially amends the existing English language testing rules and eligible course listings under the Migration Regulations 1994. Expanded List of Eligible Pathway Programs – The number of approved pathway programs has increased from 155 to 166, reflecting broader access for international students. Lower English Test Score Eligibility – Applicants enrolled in an eligible pathway programs may meet the reduced English requirement of IELTS 5.5 or equivalent, easing the entry process for many. Updated Course Table – The list in Schedule 2 of LIN 24/022 has been replaced to include the updated course offerings. The heading of column 4 in the table is now titled ‘Destination University’ (previously ‘Provider’) to better align with the descriptions that providers use for the matriculation of courses. University Merger Reflected – The University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide have merged to form Adelaide University. As a result, 21 pathway programs have updated destination university names in the revised table. Ongoing Sector Consultation – The updated course list follows regular engagement with education sector via the Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC). This legislative update supports transparency and offers more accessible education pathways for aspiring international students, reinforcing Australia’s reputation as a premier study destination. Click here – Federal Register of Legislation – LIN 25/027
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  • June 14, 2025

Important Update: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Required for ImmiAccount – Effective 18 June 2025

The Department of Home Affairs is strengthening security for ImmiAccount by introducing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), aligning with the Australian Government’s cyber security standards.From 18 June 2025, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) will be mandatory for all ImmiAccount users. This new login requirement provides stronger protection of sensitive visa and immigration data by adding an extra layer of security. Learn what steps you and your clients should take to prepare. What’s Changing? From 18 June 2025, all users – new and existing – must set up MFA to access or make changes to their ImmiAccount. MFA will: Be required at every login. Be required for making any changes to account settings. Allow users to reset their own authentication method via ImmiAccount. How to Prepare To ensure a smooth transition for you and your clients:✔ Download an authenticator app (e.g. Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator) on your mobile device or computer.✔ Log in and verify your email address, especially if you haven’t accessed ImmiAccount in the past 6 months. Step-by-step instructions will be available in ImmiAccount starting 18 June 2025. Why MFA? MFA adds an essential layer of protection to your account beyond your password, helping secure sensitive visa and immigration data. Click here: Multi-factor Authentication for ImmiAccount
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Partner Visa Applications: Clear Subclass References Now Required on Form 956

Ensure both visa subclasses are listed to avoid communication delays. The Department has issued updated guidance regarding how Registered Migration Agents (RMAs) and legal practitioners should notify them of appointments related to Partner visa applications. This clarification is intended to prevent delays in communication and visa processing. Both visa subclasses must be clearly identified on Form 956. In most cases, Partner visa applications are lodged as a combined package — either: Subclass 820 (temporary) and 801 (permanent) for onshore applicants, or Subclass 309 (provisional) and 100 (permanent) for offshore applicants. To ensure correct correspondence, both visa subclasses must be clearly stated when notifying the Department of your appointment. This applies whether you are acting as the client’s representative or simply as an authorised recipient. For example, if appointed to assist with both subclass 820 and 801 applications, both subclasses must be explicitly listed at question 15 of Form 956. Important Notes: While written notification is accepted, Form 956 is strongly preferred for consistency. For new Partner visa applications, ensure both subclasses are listed from the outset. For existing applications, agents are asked to: Review the most recent Form 956 submitted, and Upload an updated form via ImmiAccount if any subclass was omitted. Failure to list both subclasses may result in communication being limited to only the subclass mentioned, causing unnecessary processing delays.
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Update on Skills Assessments for Early Childhood Teachers: AITSL Remains Valid

No need to reapply if you already hold a valid AITSL assessment. In December 2024, the designated skills assessing authority for Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teachers (ANZSCO 241111) officially changed from AITSL to ACECQA and now the Department has confirmed that existing AITSL assessments remain valid until their expiry date. The Department has confirmed that, for the purposes of the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program — including subclasses 189, 190, and 491 — existing positive skills assessments issued by AITSL will remain valid until their expiry date. There is no need for applicants to obtain a new assessment from ACECQA if their current AITSL assessment is still valid. When lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, candidates can nominate either AITSL or ACECQA as the assessing authority, depending on which one issued their assessment. The same policy applies to subclass 186 Direct Entry (DE) visa applications. A positive AITSL assessment may be accepted if: This update provides clarity and reassurance for early childhood teachers pursuing permanent or provisional migration pathways.
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Updated TRA Job Ready Program Processing Times: Faster Turnaround, Clearer Steps

(TRA simplifies processing for skilled migrants navigating the Job Ready Program.) As of 16 May 2025, Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) has introduced updated time estimates for each stage of the Job Ready Program (JRP), making it easier for migrants and agents to plan ahead with confidence. Read More- The revised processing benchmarks include: Confirmation of Registration: After submitting your online application, you’ll receive confirmation of your registration within 45 days. Eligibility for Workplace Assessment: TRA will assess your eligibility to proceed with a Workplace Assessment and provide a decision within 6 months of your application. Workplace Assessment Application: Once your application is lodged: TRA will confirm referral to a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) within 6 weeks. The RTO will contact you within 2 weeks of referral to schedule your assessment. (If you can’t attend the scheduled date, be sure to contact the RTO directly to make changes.) Workplace Assessment Outcome: Assessment results are provided to TRA by the RTO. You’ll be notified of your outcome approximately 11 weeks after the assessment takes place. Final Assessment Invitation: When you’ve completed all participation requirements, TRA will invite you to proceed with the Final Assessment. Document Review: If additional or missing documents are requested, TRA will process them within 14 days of receipt. These changes aim to streamline the pathway to skilled employment, helping applicants move through the process more efficiently. Click here – TRA website
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Import Your Paper Parent Visa Application into ImmiAccount

From 2 April 2025, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced a new online feature that allows certain Parent visa applicants to import their paper applications into ImmiAccount. While parent visa applications still need to be lodged using paper forms, applicants now have access to additional digital functionality for easier tracking and communication. The new import function in ImmiAccount gives Parent visa applicants easier access to their applications and enhances communication with the Department of Home Affairs. It’s available for both new and existing applications, except for some older Subclass 103 cases which are lodged before November 2018. Once imported, applicants can manage updates, add documents, and view important updates online—streamlining the process significantly. Key Benefits: Attach additional documents to your application View correspondence sent to you Update your details Track application progress Apply for a Bridging Visa (if eligible) Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import Your Application Create or log in to your ImmiAccount.– Visit: www.homeaffairs.gov.au/immiaccount Import your application using: Your application ID Your date of birth Your identity document number (e.g. ImmiCard, passport, or Titre de Voyage) Once imported, your application will appear in your ImmiAccount. You can: Attach documents Update application details View communications from the Department Apply for a Bridging Visa (if eligible) And more! Click here- Parent visa-Paper import Functionality (Fact Sheet)
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CPA Australia Skills Assessment Update: New Products & Fee Structure

From 1 May 2025, CPA Australia has revised product names for skills assessments and implemented a new fee structure based on applicant location — Onshore, Offshore, or Singapore. Several combined services and appeal options have also been discontinued. Agents must now use updated product names and refer to the new pricing when lodging applications. Product Name Changes Previous Product Name New Product Name (from 1 May 2025) Skills assessment application Qualification assessment Fast Track skills assessment application Fast Track – Qualification assessment Skills assessment and skilled employment assessment application Combined assessment – Qualification and skilled employment Skills assessment (Additional ANZSCO code) Qualification assessment – Additional ANZSCO Fast Track skills assessment (Additional ANZSCO code) Fast Track – Qualification assessment Additional ANZSCO Skilled employment assessment Skilled employment assessment Skills assessment and skilled employment assessment (Additional ANZSCO) Combined assessment – Qualification and skilled employment – Additional ANZSCO Skills assessment update Qualification assessment – Update Skilled employment assessment update Skilled employment assessment – Update Skills assessment update and skilled employment assessment No longer offered Skills assessment appeal Review Skilled employment assessment appeal No longer offered Skills assessment appeal and skilled employment assessment No longer offered Administration fee (withdrawal or reissue) Administration fee Updated Fees by Applicant Location (AUD) Service Onshore Offshore Singapore Qualification assessment $565 $514 $560 Fast Track – Qualification assessment $675 $614 $669 Combined assessment – Qualification and skilled employment $620 $564 $615 Qualification assessment – Additional ANZSCO $260 $236 $257 Fast Track – Qualification assessment Additional ANZSCO $310 $282 $307 Skilled employment assessment $260 $236 $257 Combined assessment – Additional ANZSCO $350 $318 $347 Qualification assessment – Update $185 $168 $183 Skilled employment assessment – Update $185 $168 $183 Review (appeal) $185 $168 $183 Administration fee $85 $77 $84 Important Points to Remember Use updated product names for all applications submitted after 1 May 2025. The following services are no longer offered: Skills assessment update and skilled employment assessment Skilled employment assessment appeal Skills assessment appeal and skilled employment assessment Fees are now based on applicant location (onshore, offshore, or Singapore). Click here- CPA Australia official Website
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NT DAMA III Unlocked: More Visas, More Occupations, More Flexibility

From March 2025, NT DAMA III opens new doors for employers and overseas workers — with higher nomination limits and expanded benefits across key visa programs. On 19 March 2025, the Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA III) officially came into effect, representing a major step forward in expanding skilled migration opportunities for both overseas workers and NT employers. Jointly launched by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments, the new agreement raises the annual nomination cap to 1,500 (up from 625) and broadens access to 325 occupations across ANZSCO skill levels 1–5. Eligible visa streams under NT DAMA III include:• Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand (valid for 4 years)• Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (valid for 5 years)• Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (permanent residency) Key Updates: Age Limit Increase:Up to 55 years for most occupations, and 50 years for Skill Level 5 roles English Language Concessions:Available for select occupations, easing language requirements for eligible applicants 5-Year Bulk Endorsements:Employers can apply for endorsement for a 5-year bulk ceiling. This allows for better workforce planning and allows businesses to secure long-term employment pathways for their overseas workers. Salary Concessions:A salary threshold concession of 15% of the Core Skills Income Threshold is available for all occupations, (which currently equates to $62,177), and up to 10% (currently $6,217) can be made up of certain types of non-monetary benefits. Mandatory Labour Market Testing:Labour market testing is required for all occupations at time of endorsement and at time of nomination application. Streamlined Endorsement Portal:The portal now features an integrated workflow for registered migration agents and immigration legal practitioners, enabling a more efficient client verification process during endorsement applications. NT DAMA III is a powerful opportunity for regional employers and skilled migrants — but agents need to act strategically and stay informed. Click here- NT DAMA website
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