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Highlights: Australia Revises Income Thresholds for Employer-Sponsored Visas

• Australia has announced new salary thresholds for employer-sponsored visas, effective for applications lodged between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
• The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold is set at AUD 76,515, while a higher threshold of AUD 141,210 applies to specialist roles.
• The income threshold has been revised for visa categories like Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187), and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187).
• The updated salary requirements are linked to annual wage data to align the income of foreign workers with that of regional employees.
• The skilled visa income thresholds in Australia are scheduled to be indexed each year and will take effect from July 1, 2026, for new nomination applications.

*Want to apply for an Australia work visa? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.
 

Australia updates Salary Threshold for Employer-Sponsored Visas in 2026

Australia has recently updated its  Employer-Sponsored Visa Salary Requirements through Annual Wage Indexation. The Department of Home Affairs has announced that the new salary requirements apply to multiple visa categories to align the income of foreign workers with that of Australian employees.

Skilled Visa income thresholds are indexed annually in the country, based on changes in Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings. These updates are scheduled to take effect on July 1 every year for new nomination applications.

The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has been set at AUD 76,515 for applications lodged between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. The new threshold applies to visa categories such as Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187), Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).

Professionals applying to higher-skilled roles will have to meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold of AUD 141,210 for applications lodged within the same timeline.
 

The following are the revised salary thresholds in Australia across different visa categories:
 

Category	Income Threshold	Applicable Period	Applicable Visas / Streams	Details
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)	AUD 76,515	July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026	Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494), Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187)	Minimum salary requirement for employer-sponsored nomination applications
Core Skills Income Threshold	AUD 76,515	July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026	Core Skills Stream (Employer-sponsored visas)	Applies to core skills stream salary requirements for eligible occupations

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What do the Updated Salary Thresholds Mean for Foreign Workers in Australia?

The updated salary requirements in Australia for skilled visa categories aim to establish fair pay for foreign workers in line with local wage standards.

Here is how the revised salary threshold will affect foreign professionals in Australia:

• Skilled visa applicants must secure jobs that meet the new salary requirements.
• Foreign workers can benefit from improved salaries and stronger financial stability in Australia.
• Employers must provide salaries that align with the revised minimum income and market rates.
• Workers across sectors like hospitality, retail, and some healthcare roles will benefit from higher wages.

Note: The Annual Market Salary Rates in Australia are revised annually to ensure adequate compensation for foreign workers and maintain parity with local job markets.

Are you looking for a step-by-step with Australian Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 abroad immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!

FAQs

What are Australia's new income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas?

Australia has increased income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas to reflect annual wage growth. These updated salary requirements ensure overseas workers are paid fairly and align with Australian labour market standards. Applicants must meet the revised minimum salary to qualify.

When do the new income thresholds come into effect?

The revised income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas are expected to take effect from July 2026. All new visa applications submitted after the implementation date must meet the updated salary requirements.

Which visas are affected by Australia's new income thresholds?

The changes apply to employer-sponsored visas, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494).

Why has Australia increased employer-sponsored visa salary thresholds?

Australia adjusts salary thresholds annually through wage indexation. This ensures migrant workers receive competitive pay, prevents undercutting local wages, and maintains fairness in the labour market.

Will existing visa holders be affected by the new salary thresholds?

Existing visa holders are generally not affected immediately. However, the new income thresholds may apply during visa renewal, employer change, or nomination updates.

What is the purpose of annual wage indexation in Australia?

Annual wage indexation adjusts salary requirements based on economic conditions and wage growth. This helps maintain fair pay standards for migrant workers and protects local employment opportunities.

Can applicants still apply if their salary is below the new threshold?

No, applicants must meet the new minimum salary requirement. If the offered salary falls below the threshold, the visa application may be refused unless exemptions apply.

Who benefits from the updated employer-sponsored visa salary requirements?

Both migrant workers and Australian employees benefit. Migrants receive fair wages, while the changes prevent salary undercutting in the local labour market.

Are these changes applicable to all occupations?

The new thresholds generally apply across eligible occupations under employer-sponsored visa programs. However, specific roles may have different salary benchmarks depending on industry standards.

How can I apply for an Australian employer-sponsored visa?

Applicants must secure a job offer from an approved Australian employer, meet skill and salary requirements, and submit a visa application. Consulting immigration experts can help ensure eligibility and proper documentation.

Highlights: Greece Revises minimum wages for work visas from April 2026

• Greece has announced a rise in the minimum wage for full-time employees, effective April 1, 2026.
• The new minimum wage in Greece will now be 920 euros, up from 880 euros earlier.
• The minimum monthly gross wage will increase by 4.5%, marking the sixth hike in the last four years.
• The updated wages requirement reflects the country’s initiative to reduce financial crisis and the effects of rising energy costs.
• The country aims to raise the minimum wage to 950 euros by 2027, attracting more foreign workers to the Greek job market.

 

*Interested to apply for a Greece work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.

 

Greece Plans Sixth Wage Increase Amid Fuel Inflation Crisis in 2026

Greece is set to revise its minimum wage requirements, effective from April 1, 2026. The minimum wage will be increased from 880 euros to 920 euros to restore living standards impacted by inflation in the country.

The U.S.-Israeli-Iranian conflict has significantly affected Greece's financial situation due to surging energy prices. Greece is still recovering from the earlier 2009-2018 debt crisis that cut wages, pensions, and economic output.

As a result, the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has decided to cut taxes and social security contributions and increase the minimum salary for full-time employees by 5 times since 2022, targeting a minimum monthly salary of 950 euros by 2027.

Additionally, the country has introduced caps on profit margins for fuel and supermarket goods, and subsidies for fertilizers.

 

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Greece launches Tech Talent Visa and relaxes EU Blue Card rules – Apply Now!

 

How will the new minimum wage impact foreign workers in Greece?

The revised minimum wage requirement for full-time workers in Greece is an initiative to manage the ongoing fuel inflation crisis. While the country attempts to recover its living standards, the recent changes will impact foreign workers in Greece in the following ways:

• The minimum salary for foreign workers in entry-level jobs will rise to 920 euros.
• Improved compensation for foreign workers across sectors like tourism, construction, agriculture, and hospitality.
• Alignment between the higher cost of living and the average annual earnings.
• Higher minimum wages will attract foreign skilled workers to sectors facing labor shortages in the country.
• Offset rising inflation and fuel costs amid global tension.

Note: Greece’s plan to raise the minimum wage to €950 by 2027 will benefit foreign professionals in the upcoming years.

 

Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

 

For recent immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Schengen News Page!

 

FAQs

What is the new minimum wage in Greece?

Greece plans to increase the minimum wage to €920 per month from April 2026. This marks the sixth wage increase in recent years. The move aims to support workers facing rising living costs, inflation, and fuel price pressures while strengthening Greece’s economic recovery and improving income levels.

When will the new minimum wage in Greece take effect?

The new minimum wage in Greece is expected to take effect from April 2026. The government announced this increase as part of its ongoing efforts to improve workers’ purchasing power and support economic growth as the country continues to recover from past financial challenges.

Why is Greece increasing the minimum wage?

Greece is raising the minimum wage to help workers manage rising fuel prices, inflation, and higher living expenses. The government also aims to support economic recovery, improve household income, and attract more workers to sectors currently facing labour shortages.

How will the wage increase impact foreign workers in Greece?

Foreign workers in Greece may benefit from higher starting salaries and improved financial stability. The wage increase could also encourage employers to hire more international workers, especially in industries such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, and construction where labour demand remains high.

Which sectors in Greece hire foreign workers the most?

Foreign workers are mainly hired in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, construction, and seasonal services. These industries often rely on migrant workers due to labour shortages, and higher wages may further increase job opportunities for foreign applicants.

Is Greece facing labour shortages?

Yes, Greece is currently facing labour shortages in several industries, particularly in tourism, agriculture, construction, and hospitality. The wage increase is expected to help attract more workers, including foreign nationals, to fill these roles and support economic growth.

Will Greece increase minimum wages again in the future?

Greece has announced plans to gradually increase the minimum wage further, with a target of around €950 by 2027. This long-term approach aims to improve living standards, boost consumer spending, and support workers across different sectors.

Can foreign workers apply for jobs in Greece after the wage increase?

Yes, foreign workers can apply for jobs in Greece through work visa and employer-sponsored opportunities. With higher wages and labour shortages, Greece may become more attractive for international workers looking for employment in Europe.

How does Greece’s minimum wage compare to other European countries?

Greece’s minimum wage is still lower than many Western European countries, but recent increases are making it more competitive. The rising wages, combined with job opportunities and growing sectors, may attract more foreign workers to Greece.

Is Greece a good destination for foreign workers in 2026?

With increasing wages, labour shortages, and economic recovery, Greece is becoming a more attractive destination for foreign workers. Job opportunities across tourism, agriculture, and construction sectors continue to grow, making Greece a potential option for international job seekers.

Highlights: Australia to Accelerate Visa Processing Time for Foreign Skilled Workers and Students

• Australia has launched a new immigration system to reduce visa processing time for international students and skilled workers, effective from March 25, 2026.
• The new visa processing system in Australia aims to accelerate visa approval through automation.
• The upgraded system will benefit international students, skilled workers, and tourists by minimising review time for high-demand visa categories.
• Applicants for any Australian visa will be able to track their application progress in real time through new digital tools.
• The new changes will also include fast-track pathways for skilled workers and international students.

*Want to apply for an Australia visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Australia Introduces New Visa System for Faster Approval

The Department of Home Affairs has launched a new automated visa system to reduce processing times for student and Australia work visas. The upgraded immigration system, effective from March 25, 2026, automates the review process for faster decisions.

Applicants can track the status of their visa processing in real time through new digital tools. A priority processing channel will be used in Australia for fast-tracking urgent visa applications while maintaining verification accuracy.

Australia’s updated visa processing system relies more on digital tools and technology to speed approvals. Manual checking procedures have been moved online to help immigration officers in the country and streamline immigration.

Automation and digital verification of visa applications will directly affect the timelines for tourist, student, and work visas in Australia. The revised system aims to support international mobility, enabling foreign nationals to plan travel and course of action.  

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Australia visa processing time for Indians (Updated)

The current visa processing time for different types of Australia visas is as follows:

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Factors affecting the Australia visa processing time from India

While the automated visa system will be effective from March 2026, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has identified potential reasons for delays in visa processing from India.

 

The factors affecting Australia visa processing time for Indians are as follows:

• Submission of documents adhering to the checklist.
• Respond to the applicant via email to request further information for verification.
• Average time required for health, character, and national security checks.
• Complexity of visa application.
• Latest updates in government migration policy and ministerial directions.
• Volume of visa applications at a particular time.
• Availability of places within the annual migration programme.

 

Are you looking for a step-by-step with Australian Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 abroad immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

 

For more updates on Australia, check out Y-Axis Australia Immigration Updates!

Highlights: Canada to boost LMIA-exempted Work Permit Pathway for Innovation Stream

• Canada has recently announced an LMIA-exempt work permit extension for highly skilled workers from the innovation stream.
• The Innovation stream granting employer-specific work permits to skilled professionals has been extended for two more years until March 22, 2028.
• Applicants under the Innovation stream will be eligible for a simplified work permit that does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMI).
• International workers must have a valid job offer in a high-skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) or under an employer enrolled in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) to apply for the permit.
• LMIA-exempt Innovation stream work permit holders are eligible to sponsor their spouses for a spousal open work permit in Canada.

*Want to apply for a Canada work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Canada Extends Innovation Stream work permit for Global Talents

Canada has officially announced a two-year extension of the Innovation stream for highly skilled workers. Under the Innovation category, foreign nationals with high qualifications can obtain a work permit through a simplified pathway that does not require Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA). 

Foreign skilled workers must secure a job offer from a Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP)- enlisted company to be eligible to apply for a LMIA-exempt work permit. Professionals from high-skilled, high-skill-based occupational fields under the TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the NOC System are also considered for the Innovation stream.

The latest policy changes state that LMIA-exempted work permit holders in Canada are eligible to support their spouse for a Canadian spousal open work permit.

According to official updates, Canada’s Innovation Stream will continue to operate until March 22, 2028.
 

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Who can qualify LMIA-exempted Innovation stream permit?

The eligibility criteria for the LMIA-exempt work permit under the Innovation stream are as follows:

Foreign nationals can also qualify for the Innovation stream with a job offer under the Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) System.

Additionally, overseas skilled workers applying for Canada’s LMIA-exempt work permit must meet the education and experience criteria listed for NOC-approved occupations.

Applicants must secure a valid job offer from an employer participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) to apply for an Innovation stream work permit.

The following companies are currently participating in the GHP initiative:

• Ada Support Inc.
• AlayaCare.
• CellCarta.
• Clarius Mobile Health.
• Clio.
• Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG).
• Lightspeed Commerce.
• Vive Crop Protection.

Note: Extension of the Canadian Innovation Pilot is part of the government’s strategy to attract highly-skilled professionals across the world for workforce expansion.

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canada immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world's No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy.

For recent Canadian immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Canada Immigration News Page.

Highlights: Germany to hire Indian Professionals to meet the ongoing skill shortage

• Germany is set to boost the hiring process for Indian workers across IT, engineering, and tech fields amid the ongoing skill shortage.
• The German government will recruit about 288,000 foreign workers each year to address rising demand in regional job markets.
• The country is primarily focusing on sectors like healthcare and nursing with the intention of caring for an ageing population and recruiting young workers.
• Recent policy changes, such as the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, have eased immigration pathways for Indians moving to Germany.
• The German skilled work visa quota for Indians has increased from 20,000 to 90,000 annually to expand the workforce.

*Want to apply for a Germany work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Germany boosts job opportunities for Indians amidst high Labor market demand

Germany faces a significant workforce shortage across the diverse job market due to an ageing population and a lack of young workers.

As a result, German employers are widening the hiring pathways to acquire foreign workers from India. Additionally, the median gross monthly income of Indians in Germany is estimated at €5,393 (Rs 568,900), compared to €4,177 (Rs 434,000) for regional workers. 

The labour shortage in Germany is mainly associated with long-term demographic factors, such as a low birth rate and emigration.

Germany requires about 288,000 foreign workers each year to address the growing demand for foreign talent. India has a high percentage of young workers willing to migrate to Germany for work opportunities and vocational training, making it a partner nation in sustaining the German economy and promoting growth in other nations.

Recently implemented policy changes in Germany have made it further easier for Indians to migrate and secure a job offer abroad.
 

The newly implemented immigration updates in Germany for Indians:  

• The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, signed in 2022, streamlines immigration pathways for Indian workers.
• Increase in skilled work visa quota for Indians from 20,000 to 90,000 annually.
• Targeted approach across key sectors, such as healthcare and nursing, driven by an aging population.
• The annual compensation of Indian workers in Germany is 29% higher than that of their German counterparts.

Note: As a result of German immigration policy changes, the number of Indian workers in Germany rose from 23,320 in 2015 to 136,670 in 2024.
 

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Why should Indians consider migrating to Germany in 2026?

Indian professionals intending to migrate to Germany amidst the country’s ongoing labour shortage can benefit in the following ways:

• The average monthly income for Indian workers is €5,393 (Rs 568,900), compared to €4,177 (Rs 434,000) for locals in Germany. 
• The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement simplifies visa rules for faster immigration from India to Germany.
• Increased skilled work visa approval quota from 20,000 to 90,000 annually.
• Young Indian professionals can enter Germany through apprenticeship programmes, thereby boosting future job opportunities.
• Stable long-term career and residence opportunity through visa pathways like the EU Blue Card.

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Germany immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!

For recent immigration updates, check out the Y-Axis Schengen News Page!