Use the guaranteed base salary for full-time hours. Superannuation, overtime that is not guaranteed, bonuses and non-cash benefits do not count.
The two thresholds
| Threshold | From 1 July 2026 | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | A$79,423 | The salary floor for a 482 Skills in Demand nomination in the Core Skills stream |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) | A$146,576 | The salary floor for the Specialist Skills stream |
Both thresholds are indexed each 1 July. A nomination is assessed on the figure in force on the day it is lodged.
The second test: the market salary rate
The salary must also be no less than what an Australian citizen or permanent resident is paid, or would be paid, for the same work at the same location. Employers usually show this with their own pay records for the same role, an enterprise agreement or award, or published salary data. A salary above the threshold but below the market rate does not pass.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum salary to sponsor a worker in Australia in 2026? For a 482 Skills in Demand nomination in the Core Skills stream, the salary must be at least the Core Skills Income Threshold, A$79,423 from 1 July 2026, and at least the market rate for the job.
Does superannuation count towards the threshold? No. Count the guaranteed annual base salary. Superannuation, non-guaranteed overtime, bonuses and non-cash benefits are left out.
What if the market rate is lower than the threshold? The higher of the two applies. A role whose market rate is below A$79,423 cannot be nominated in the Core Skills stream at that rate.
Found the numbers work? Find the worker
Free employer registration shows how many sponsorship-ready candidates exist for your occupation and where they are. No charge until you unlock a contact.
Want the sponsorship, nomination and visa handled? WIDEN (Keshab Chapagain, MARN 1576536) can check your position and lodge them; start with a 30-minute consultation, A$330 inc. GST, credited if you engage.
General information only, not migration advice. SponsorTalent is a marketplace; migration advice is provided by WIDEN (Keshab Chapagain, MARN 1576536) under a service agreement. Figures are the Department of Home Affairs charges and thresholds in force from 1 July 2026, checked 7 November 2026; they are indexed each 1 July, so confirm on the Home Affairs website before you rely on them.