Immigration Update: News for 482 & 494 Visa Holders + Increased Income Thresholds 1 July 2025
Changing employers as the holder of a 482 or 494 visa
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that Subclass 482 and 494 visa holders who have ceased working for their current sponsor and have lodged a valid nomination application within the 180-day timeframe, can continue working for their new prospective sponsor even if their new nomination is still yet to be approved.
What this means:
- No need to stop working while waiting for the new nomination approval.
- Applicants can avoid income gaps and remain compliant.
- This applies only if the nomination is lodged within the 180-day window of ceasing employment with the previous sponsor.
Income Threshold Increases Effective 1 July, 2025
The Australian Government has announced a 4.6% increase for the Core and Specialist Skills income thresholds. These new salary benchmarks apply to nominations lodged on or after July 1, 2025.
Updated Income Thresholds from 1 July 2025:
- Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) = AUD $76,515
- Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) = AUD $141,210
Visa Processing Times Updated
The Department of Home Affairs has updated processing times for Subclass 482 and 186 visas:
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482)
- Specialist Skills Stream = 13 Days
- Core Skills Stream = 41 Days
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186):
- Temporary Resident Transition & Direct Entry Stream = 12 to 18 months