The TSMIT is the minimum annual salary an employer must pay a sponsored worker on a 482 visa in Australia. Here's what you need to know — and what happens if your salary falls below it.
What Is the TSMIT?
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold — known as the TSMIT — is the minimum annual base salary that a 482 visa holder must receive from their sponsoring employer in Australia. From 1 July 2023, the TSMIT was raised to AUD $73,150 per year (base salary, excluding most allowances and superannuation).
The TSMIT exists to prevent employers from using the 482 visa to undercut Australian workers by paying overseas nationals less than market rates.
Why Was the TSMIT Increased?
Prior to July 2023, the TSMIT sat at AUD $53,900 — unchanged since 2013. The Albanese Government raised it substantially as part of reforms to the temporary skilled migration system. The intent is to ensure sponsored workers are genuinely skilled and paid at rates that do not disadvantage local workers.
What Counts Toward the TSMIT?
Only base salary counts toward the TSMIT. The following are generally excluded:
Superannuation contributions (9.5–11%)
Overtime, bonuses, or commission payments
Allowances (tools, vehicle, accommodation) unless guaranteed in the contract
Non-cash benefits
Your contract must clearly state a base salary of at least AUD $73,150. If not, the nomination will be refused.
What Is the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR)?
In addition to the TSMIT, the employer must also pay the Annual Market Salary Rate — essentially, what they would pay an Australian doing the same job. If the AMSR for your role is higher than the TSMIT, you must be paid the AMSR.
The TSMIT is therefore a floor, not a ceiling.
What Happens If My Salary Falls Below the TSMIT?
If your salary drops below the TSMIT mid-visa — due to a pay cut, reduced hours, or role change — this can trigger a breach of sponsorship obligations. Your employer could face sanctions, and your visa status could be affected.
Employers are also required to pay sponsored workers at the same rate as Australian employees performing equivalent work.
Does the TSMIT Apply to the 186 and 494 Visas?
Yes. The salary threshold also applies to the 186 (ENS) and 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visas, with some variation in how it is applied across streams. For the 494, a separate regional salary threshold may apply in some cases.
Will the TSMIT Increase Again?
The government has indicated that the TSMIT will be reviewed regularly and indexed over time. It is expected to rise incrementally — so future 482 and 186 nominations may need to meet a higher threshold than today's AUD $73,150.
Our migration agents keep up to date with TSMIT changes and will always advise you on the current threshold applicable to your nomination.