Increase to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)
From 1 July 2010, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), was indexed by 5 per cent, in line with the Australia-wide increase in average weekly earnings. This will increase TSMIT from $45 220 to $47 480.
The increase to the TSMIT will apply to all nomination applications which are decided on or after 1 July 2010, regardless of lodgement date.
A “457″ Standard business sponsor is required to pay their overseas workers the market salary rate. The increase to TSMIT means that where the market rate for a position is less that $47 480, the position cannot be nominated under the “457″ program.
The TSMIT is set at this level to ensure that all Subclass “457″ visa holders have sufficient income to independently provide for themselves in Australia.
The TSMIT helps ensure that Subclass “457″ visa holders do not impose undue costs on the Australian community or find themselves in circumstances which may put pressure on them to breach their visa conditions. This is particularly important given these workers do not have access to a range of government support available to Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Increase to the high-income exemption to the English language requirement
In line with the increase to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), the high income exemption to the English language requirement will also be indexed by 5 per cent. This means that from 1 July 2010, the exemption salary amount will increase from $81 040 to $85 090. This applies in relation to all nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2010.
The transition to ANZSCO will not affect which occupations are exempt from the English language requirement, except that from 1 July 2010 these occupations will be described in ANZSCO instead of ASCO. All occupations exempt when described by ASCO are still exempt when described by ANZSCO.
Should the reader wish to ask further questions or gain further advice regrading this or another matter, please contact us via our FREE VISA ASSESSMENT opportunity on our home page or send a short enquiry via the “NEED A QUICK ANSWER” section also on our home page.
