Australia raises TSMIT to $70,000 for temporary skilled migration

Australia recently announced a significant change to its Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), which will lift the minimum salary an employer must pay to bring in a skilled worker temporarily to $70,000 from July 1, 2023. The previous threshold of $53,900, which had been in place for the past decade for work visas, has been criticized for being a poor measure of skills, with 90% of full-time workers earning more than this amount.

On May 5, 2023, Home Affairs provided further clarification on the TSMIT changes and expanded pathways to permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream. The new information is as follows:

1. TSMIT will increase from $53,900 to $70,000 on 1 July 2023. New nominations lodged on or after that date will be required to meet the new TSMIT of $70,000 or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher. Applications lodged before 1 July 2023 will not be affected.
2. By the end of 2023, the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme SC 186 will be amended. All Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) SC 482 visa holders will be eligible for ENS visas sponsored by their employers. Applicants will need to continue to work in the occupation nominated for their TSS visa(s).
3. Sponsored visa holders will be eligible for ENS TRT after two years (down from three years) of sponsorship on a TSS by their employer. Applicants will need to meet all other nomination and visa requirements for the TRT stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
4. The limit on Short Term stream TSS visa applications that can be made onshore has also been removed in the interim.

The increase in the TSMIT is a positive move for highly skilled professionals and overseas workers seeking employment in Australia. The change means that overseas workers will no longer be bound to their employer, while highly skilled professionals will find it much quicker and easier to enter and start work in the country.

The expanded pathways to permanent residence through the ENS TRT stream provide additional opportunities for temporary skilled migrants in Australia. This change, combined with the increase in TSMIT, will ensure that the program remains focused on attracting highly skilled professionals who can make a significant contribution to the country's economy.

If you're a business owner or individual who is unsure about how the forthcoming changes will impact you, it's important to seek advice. Contact Migration Expert today for expert guidance on how to navigate the changing landscape of temporary skilled migration in Australia. Let us help you ensure that your business or career is well-positioned for success in the years to come.

As the changes to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) and the expanded pathways to permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream are implemented, it is essential for both business owners and individuals to stay informed and understand how these changes may affect them. Here are a few key points to consider:

1. Skilled workers and professionals looking to migrate to Australia should be aware of the new TSMIT of $70,000, which will be effective from July 1, 2023. Ensure that you meet the minimum salary requirement before applying for a temporary skilled visa.
2. For employers, it is crucial to review the salaries of your current and potential overseas employees to ensure they meet the new TSMIT. This will help you avoid any complications during the visa application process.
3. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) SC 482 visa holders should consider the updated eligibility requirements for the ENS TRT stream, which now allows them to apply for permanent residence after two years of sponsorship on a TSS by their employer, down from the previous three years.
4. Business owners and HR professionals should also be aware that the limit on Short Term stream TSS visa applications that can be made onshore has been removed. This change provides greater flexibility for employers to hire skilled workers and fill labor gaps within their organizations.
5. To navigate the changing landscape of temporary skilled migration in Australia effectively, it's important to stay informed about any further updates or changes to the migration regulations. Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a migration expert to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

In conclusion, the Australian government's decision to lift the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold to $70,000 and expand pathways to permanent residence through the ENS TRT stream presents new opportunities for skilled professionals and employers in the country. By staying informed about these changes and seeking expert advice, both businesses and individuals can position themselves for success in the years to come.

If you’re a business owner or individual who is unsure about how the forthcoming changes will impact you, it’s important to seek advice. Contact Migration Expert today for expert guidance on how to navigate the changing landscape of temporary skilled migration in Australia. Let us help you ensure that your business or career is well-positioned for success in the years to come.

Remember:

This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent

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