Table of Contents
- What's New from 1 July 2025
- Updated Income Thresholds for Employer Sponsorship
- Pending Updates: State Nominations & Points Review
- Skills Assessment Fees by Body (2025 Estimates)
- Why These Changes Matter
- Final Thoughts: Time to Act
- How Abroad Routes Can Help
Major Changes to Australia Skilled Visas – July 2025 Update
The Australian migration landscape changed significantly from 1 July 2025.
If you’re considering Skilled Migration, Employer Sponsorship, or Student Visas, understanding the new visa application charges (VAC), income thresholds, and pending state nominations is crucial.
At Abroad Routes, we help you stay one step ahead of policy shifts. Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s changed — and what’s coming.
What's New from 1 July 2025
Visa Application Charges Increased — Up to 25%
Visa Type | VAC 2024–25 | VAC 2025–26 (from July 1, 2025) | Increase |
Student (subclass 500) | AUD 1,600 | AUD 2,000 | +25% |
Partner (820/801 & 309/100) | AUD 9,095 | AUD 9,365 | +3% |
Skilled (189, 190, 491) | AUD 4,765 | AUD 4,910 | +3% |
Skills in Demand (subclass 482) | AUD 3,115 | AUD 3,210 | +3% |
Employer Nomination Scheme (186) | AUD 4,770 | AUD 4,910 | +3% |
Skilled Visa applicants (189, 190, 491) must now pay AUD 4,910, up from AUD 4,765 — a seemingly small increase, but significant when applying for family units or multiple applicants.
Updated Income Thresholds for Employer Sponsorship
Threshold | Until 30 June 2025 | From 1 July 2025 |
Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | AUD 73,150 | AUD 76,515 |
Specialist Skills Threshold (SSIT) | AUD 135,000 | AUD 141,210 |
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) | AUD 73,150 | AUD 76,515 |
✔ Employers must offer at least AUD 76,515 to sponsor skilled migrants under subclass 482 or 186
Pending Updates: State Nominations & Points Review
State/Territory Migration Allocations:
Still awaiting new allocation announcements for the 2025–26 program year. Most state nomination programs remain paused.
Points Test Review:
Despite discussions, no changes yet to the points system. The entry requirement for 189/190/491 remains 65 points. Use our Abroad Routes Points Calculator to assess your eligibility.
Occupation Lists:
The MLTSSL, STSOL, and ROL remain unchanged, despite newer ANZSCO updates and the OSCA rollout.
Skills Assessment Fees by Body (2025 Estimates)
Authority | Estimated Fee (AUD) | Details |
VETASSESS | AUD 880 – 1,000+ | For general professional occupations |
ACS (IT Professionals) | AUD 530 – 650 | For ICT qualifications and experience |
Engineers Australia | AUD 600 – 800+ | Skills assessment for all engineering streams |
CPA Australia | AUD 750 | For accountants (CPA stream) |
IPA Australia | AUD 500 – 600 | Alternative to CPA; quicker processing sometimes |
TRA (Trades Recognition) | AUD 300 – 1,200+ | Based on location and trade type |
AHPRA (Health Professionals) | AUD 300 – 1,200+ | For nurses, physiotherapists, etc. |
📌 Note: Fees vary depending on complexity, occupation, and fast-track options. Check directly on the official sites before submission.
Why These Changes Matter
Australia’s migration system is evolving to attract the best global talent and meet the country’s economic needs. By increasing the VAC and salary thresholds, the government aims to ensure only genuine, skilled, and fairly remunerated migrants are entering the workforce. This not only protects the Australian labour market but also enhances opportunities for high-calibre applicants.
Strategy Tips for Applicants in 2025–26
If you’re planning to apply for a skilled visa or employer-sponsored visa, here are some expert tips to boost your chances:
✔ Recalculate your eligibility points using the latest criteria.
✔ Apply early in the financial year for better state nomination chances.
✔ Prepare documentation for skills assessments and English tests proactively.
✔ Connect with potential employers in regional areas to explore subclass 491 pathways.
✔ Watch for upcoming changes to the occupation lists and ANZSCO classifications.
Final Thoughts: Time to Act
The changes to VACs and income thresholds reflect Australia’s commitment to attracting skilled, high-wage professionals — but also increase the financial planning required for migration.
At Abroad Routes, we assist with:
✔ Eligibility checks & points calculation
✔ Skills assessment coordination
✔ Visa filing & documentation
✔ State nomination advice
✔ Employer tie-ups for sponsorship
Want to know your eligibility or check if your occupation is in demand? Click here to
Get a free pre-assessment.
How Abroad Routes Can Help
Navigating migration policy updates, documentation, and application timelines can be complex. That’s where Abroad Routes comes in.
We provide:
• Personalized visa strategy and points assessment
• End-to-end documentation support
• Skills assessment preparation across all authorities (VETASSESS, ACS, Engineers Australia, etc.)
• Employer sourcing for TSS 482 & ENS 186 visas
• Regular policy alerts so you never miss key updates
Contact Abroad Routes
Website: www.abroadroutes.com
Email: info@abroadroutes.com
Phone: +971-564819279
✔ Book your FREE eligibility assessment now and take the first step toward your Australian dream.
