For employers
Nomination Applications for Sponsored Workers
Nominate a position for a 482 or 186 worker: salary thresholds, labour market testing, fees and the Skilling Australians Fund levy, all handled correctly.
About the Nomination Applications for Sponsored Workers
A nomination is your request to fill a specific position with a sponsored worker. It costs AUD330 for a 482 nomination (AUD540 for a 186), and you must also pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy: AUD1,200 or AUD1,800 a year of the nominated stay for a 482, or a one-off AUD3,000 or AUD5,000 for a 186 or 494, depending on whether your annual turnover is under AUD10 million. The salary must meet the Annual Market Salary Rate and the relevant income threshold.
For most nominations, you must first test the Australian labour market. Since 11 December 2023, employers need two valid advertisements (no longer three), and advertising on Workforce Australia is no longer required.
Labour market testing essentials
- Advertise the position for at least 4 weeks within the 4 months before nominating
- Provide evidence of 2 advertisements when you lodge the nomination
- Include the salary for positions paying less than AUD96,400
- Use acceptable channels: a general classifieds site or social media alone is not enough
Before you nominate
- Be an approved sponsor, or apply at the same time
- Confirm the occupation and stream
- Set a salary at or above the AMSR and threshold
- Prepare a genuine position description
Income Thresholds for Nominations
| Threshold | 7 Dec 2024 to 30 Jun 2025 | 1 Jul 2025 to 30 Jun 2026 | 1 Jul 2026 to 30 Jun 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) | AUD73,150 | AUD76,515 | AUD79,423 |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) | AUD135,000 | AUD141,210 | AUD146,576 |
The salary must also be at least the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) for the occupation.
Based on Department of Home Affairs information (October 2026). Visa costs, thresholds, occupation lists and processing times can change, so always confirm current details on the Department of Home Affairs website or ask our team. This page is general information, not migration advice for your circumstances.
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Nomination Applications for Sponsored Workers FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we hear most.
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AUD330 for a 482 nomination (AUD540 for a 186), plus the SAF levy: AUD1,200 or AUD1,800 a year for a 482, or a one-off AUD3,000 or AUD5,000 for a 186 or 494, depending on annual turnover.
Two valid advertisements, run for at least 4 weeks within the 4 months before you nominate.
No. Since 11 December 2023 this is no longer required.
At least the Annual Market Salary Rate and the relevant income threshold, such as the CSIT of AUD79,423 from 1 July 2026.
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