NEW Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa

Overview

The Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482). The SID visa allows most visa holders to stay in Australia for up to four years. It offers a streamlined process for both migrants and employers seeking skilled workers to grow their businesses.

SID visa holders benefit from a clear pathway to permanent residence, providing certainty for both migrants and employers.

SID Visa Streams

The SID visa has three streams tailored to address various workforce needs:

1. Core Skills Stream:Designed to meet targeted workforce shortages. Most SID visa holders will use this stream.
2. Specialist Skills Stream:Focused on attracting highly skilled migrants to drive innovation and job creation.
3. Labour Agreement Stream:Currently being replaced by the Essential Skills Stream, which is under development.

Benefits of the SID Visa

With a SID visa, you can:

• Access a pathway to permanent residence. Any work with an approved employer counts toward this pathway.
• Fulfill a reduced work experience requirement compared to the TSS visa. SID applicants need one year of work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field.
• Meet the same English language requirements as the TSS medium-term stream (equivalent to an IELTS band score of 5 in all four components).

SID Visa Streams in Detail

Specialist Skills Stream

This stream acknowledges that highly skilled migrants contribute significantly to national productivity. It is designed for applicants who:

• Meet general eligibility requirements.
• Have an occupation listed in the ANZSCO 2022, excluding ANZSCO Major Group levels 3, 7, and 8 (e.g., trades workers, machinery operators, drivers, and laborers).
• Earn at least the Specialist Skills Income Threshold of AUD135,000, ensuring parity with Australian workers in the same roles.

Core Skills Stream

This stream addresses workforce shortages by targeting specific occupations. To be eligible, applicants must:

• Meet general eligibility requirements.
• Have an occupation listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) identified as being in shortage. This includes roles aligned with Australia’s commitments under international trade agreements.
• Be paid a salary at or above the Core Skills Income Threshold of AUD73,150.

Transition from the TSS Visa

Applications for the TSS visa closed on 6 December 2024. Outstanding applications lodged before this date will continue to be processed under the existing arrangements.

TSS visa holders will retain access to a pathway for permanent residence, provided they meet all relevant eligibility criteria.

Need Help?

If you need further information about the new Skills in Demand Visa or assistance with your application, please contact our team. We are here to guide you through every step of the process.