On 5 May 2023, the Australian Government announced a set of changes to its Migration Program, opening up better conditions and pathways to permanent residency for Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa holders and other changes to the program.

Here is what we know so far:

Increase to TSMIT

From 1 July 2023, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will be increased from $53,900 to $70,000.

From this date, all new Temporary Skills Shortage (subclass 482) nominations will be required to meet the TSMIT of $70,000 or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher.

This will not affect applications lodged before 1 July 2023.

New pathways to permanent residence

By the end of 2023, Temporary Skill Shortage short stream visa holders will have a pathway to permanent residency via the Employer Nominated (Temporary Residence Transition stream) (subclass 186) program.

Sponsored Temporary Skills Shortage (subclass 482) visa holders will be eligible to apply via this stream provided they:

• Have been sponsored for 2 years (down from 3 years) on a TSS visa by their employers;
• Continue to work in their nominated occupation;
• Meet all other nomination and visa application requirements for the Temporary Residence Transition stream.

These announcements are welcome news for employers and visa applicants alike across Australia!

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