It has been a big year in Australian migration, with important changes rolled out across key visa programs, income thresholds, and permanent residency pathways. If you are an employer, visa applicant, or sponsor trying to keep up, here is a clear rundown of what shifted in 2025 and what it could mean for you heading into 2026.
Spotlight on the 407 Training Visa
We began the year with a closer look at the Subclass 407 Training visa. This stream is ideal for workplace-based training and continues to be a valuable option for employers and visa holders looking to develop skills in Australia. It is particularly useful in situations where labour market testing is not required.
Explore the 407 visa blog
Employer Sponsored Permanent Residency Pathways
Next, we focused on the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme, unpacking both the Temporary Residence Transition stream and the Direct Entry stream. We also provided a clear comparison of the two options to help sponsors and visa holders identify which pathway suits their circumstances best.
TRT vs DE comparison
Direct Entry stream spotlight
TRT stream spotlight
Skilled Visa Income Thresholds Increased
The Australian Government confirmed a significant rise in the income thresholds for skilled visas. From 1 July 2025, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold increased to $76,515. A new Specialist Skills Threshold was also introduced, requiring a salary of $141,210 for certain high skill roles. These changes apply to nominations under Subclass 482, Subclass 186 and Subclass 494.
Initial announcement
Final confirmation and nomination guidance
Changes to the SA DAMA and Industry Labour Agreements
From 1 July 2025, the South Australian DAMA was extended until 30 June 2026. However, occupations listed under relevant Industry Labour Agreements can no longer be sponsored via the SA DAMA and must now be accessed through their designated agreements. We also saw updates to how work experience is calculated when transitioning between these programs.
Read the SA DAMA update
English Test Changes for the 482 Visa
Applicants for the Subclass 482 visa received a welcome change to English language testing rules. From 13 September 2025, applicants may re-sit a single failed test component rather than having to re-do the entire exam. Additional test providers are now accepted too, including CELPIP, LANGUAGECERT, MET and C1 Advanced. These changes offer greater flexibility and access for visa applicants.
See the English test update
How can we help?
This year’s migration changes signal a more responsive and refined approach to skilled migration in Australia but also introduce new layers of complexity. If you are unsure what these updates mean for your visa, your eligibility, or your obligations as a sponsor, we are here to help!
Reach out to the Unite Migration team at [email protected] for tailored advice and clear next steps