A major change is coming to employer-sponsored visas in Australia, and it directly affects how your salary is assessed.
Starting 25 March 2026, the government is introducing flexible methods for calculating the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) that will replace rigid approaches with more adaptable frameworks.
What Is AMSR and Why Does It Matter?
AMSR (Annual Market Salary Rate) is the minimum salary level that must be offered to a sponsored worker in Australia. It mainly applies to employer-sponsored and regional visa programs such as Subclass 482, Subclass 186, and Subclass 494.
In simple terms, it means:
This is the minimum rate that ensures overseas workers are paid at least the same as local workers for the same role.
If the salary does not meet AMSR requirements:
- The nomination can be refused, and even a well-prepared visa application can fail.
So, yes, this is not just a small technical change, but it directly affects whether your nomination is approved or refused.
What Has Changed?
Previously, AMSR assessment relied heavily on fixed benchmarks, which didn’t always reflect actual market conditions.
Now, the government allows multiple ways to justify salary, depending on:
- Whether a formal salary benchmark exists
- Whether there is a comparable Australian worker
How AMSR Will Now Be Calculated
| Situation | If there Is an equivalent Australian worker | If there is NO equivalent Australian worker |
| When a salary benchmark exists (Fair Work / state / transitional instrument) | Use the benchmark salary OR internal salary records (but not lower than the benchmark) | Use the benchmark salary OR market data (but not lower than the benchmark) |
| When NO salary benchmark exists | Use internal employment salary records | Use market salary data or relevant information |
Here,
- Benchmark salary = legally defined minimum (you cannot go below this)
- Internal records = what you actually pay similar employees in your business
- Market data = industry salaries, job ads, salary report
Who Does This Apply To?
These changes mainly apply to nominations under:
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)
- Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
- Subclass 187 (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme)
When Does It Start?
The new rules come into effect on 25 March 2026 and apply to:
- Applications already lodged but not yet decided before 25 March 2026
- New applications lodged on or after 25 March 2026
Insights on AMSR Reforms
- You now have better flexibility in salary assessment, especially where no direct Australian comparison exists.
- If your visa is already in process, this change could work in your favour if your salary needs better justification.
- Employers can use real market data and industry standards that help ensure that you are not underpaid.
- Even with flexibility, your salary cannot go below legal minimum benchmarks.
So, if you’re planning to apply for an Australian visa or have a pending case, now is the time to get expert guidance. By connecting with our team at Growmore Immigration, you can ensure your application is aligned with the latest AMSR rules and position it for a stronger outcome.
Email: info@growmore.one | WhatsApp: +61 434 202 021 | Phone: +61 3 8764 3334
Source: MIA Notice 50 – 24 March 2026