Important Update for Subclass 186 Visa From 1 July 2026
Fair Work High Income Threshold (FWHIT) Increased to AUD 190,100
From 1 July 2026, the Fair Work High Income Threshold (FWHIT) has increased from AUD 183,100 to AUD 190,100 per annum. This updated threshold is relevant to the age exemption for Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) applicants who are 45 years of age or older.
Under the Employer Nomination Scheme, applicants aged 45 or over are generally not eligible for the Subclass 186 visa. However, an exemption is available for eligible applicants who meet the Fair Work High Income Threshold.
To qualify for this exemption, applicants must have earned at least AUD 190,100 per annum for two of the last three years before lodging their application.
- Fair Work High Income Threshold (FWHIT)
- New threshold: AUD 190,100 per annum
- Previous threshold: AUD 183,100 per annum
Requirement: The threshold must be met for 2 of the last 3 years.
Employer Alert: Review New Salary Requirements Before Lodging
Employers planning to lodge a Subclass 482 or Subclass 186 nomination from 1 July 2026 should carefully review the updated salary thresholds before submitting an application.
The new salary requirements apply only to nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2026. Existing visa holders are not affected by these changes.
If a proposed salary falls between AUD 76,515 and AUD 79,499, a Subclass 482 or Subclass 186 nomination lodged from 1 July 2026 will not meet the minimum salary requirement and may be refused.
Before lodging any new nomination, employers should review employment contracts and salary packages to ensure they comply with the updated thresholds. For more updates visit us at https://immivisa.com.au/
