Subclass 482 Visa – Skills in Demand & Temporary Skill Shortage

The Subclass 482 visa is designed to help employers fill skill gaps in their workforce by sponsoring skilled overseas workers. There are now two key visa types under this subclass:

  • Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

  • Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa

While both visas share the same subclass number (482), there are important differences between them. Below is an overview of the available visa pathways, eligibility, and the key differences between SID and TSS.

Visa Pathways under Subclass 482

There are three main pathways depending on the type of work, salary level, and occupation.

1. Specialist Skills Pathway (SSP)

For highly skilled workers earning $135,000 or more annually (subject to indexation).

  • Open to most occupations, except trades, drivers, machinery operators, and general labourers.

  • Offers fast-tracked processing (as little as 7 days for some SID applications).

2. Core Skills Stream

For applicants with occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and guaranteed earnings of at least $73,150 per year (indexed annually).

To be eligible, you must:

  • Be nominated for a job on the CSOL

  • Have at least one year of experience in the nominated or related role

  • Complete a skills assessment if your occupation requires it

  • Work only for your sponsoring employer or a related entity (unless an exemption applies)

  • Meet the minimum English language requirement, unless exempt

3. Essential Skills Pathway

Designed for roles in sectors experiencing labour shortages (e.g. aged care), for workers earning less than $70,000annually.
Details are still being finalised for this pathway.

What You Can Do with a Subclass 482 Visa

Whether under SID or TSS, visa holders can typically:

  • Live and work in Australia for up to 4 years
    (or up to 5 years for Hong Kong passport holders)

  • Travel freely in and out of Australia during the visa period

  • Apply for permanent residency, if eligible

SID vs TSS – What’s the Difference?

While both the Skills in Demand and Temporary Skill Shortage visas fall under Subclass 482, they differ in important ways:

Features SID Visa TSS Visa

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pathways Includes independent (self- No self-nomination

nominated options

Sponsor Obligations Govt plans to simplify SAF Existing SAF levy applies

levy payment

Transparency Possible public sponsor No public register

register (under review)

Processing Times Likely faster, some SSP Standard timelines

applications in 7 days

Labour Market Testing May be replaced by Mandatory job advertising

independent demand check

Visa Length Up to 4 years (5 for HK 2 or 4 years, depending on

passport holders) stream

Permanent Residency More flexible – any Must complete a set time

employment period counts, with one sponsor to qualify

even if you change employers

FAQs

What Are the Work Experience Requirements?

The government hasn’t released full details yet, but it’s expected that most applicants will need at least one year of relevant work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field.

Can I Include My Family ?

Yes. You can include dependents in your SID visa application, including your partner and dependent children.

Which Stream Is Right for Me?

With multiple pathways under the SID visa, it’s important to choose the right one for your situation.
Our Registered Migration Agents at Thinkoz Migration Centre offer free assessments and can help you identify the most suitable stream.

What If I’m Already on a 482 Visa?

If you're currently holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, you'll likely continue under your current visa conditions. We’re still waiting on full guidance, but no immediate changes are expected for existing holders.

Is the 482 Visa Still Open to New Applicants?

Yes – the SID 482 visa program is now open for new applications.

What Are the Benefits?

For Employers

The SID visa is designed to simplify the sponsorship process:

  • Faster and more efficient application processing

  • Permanent residency (PR) pathways help attract and retain top talent

  • Labour market testing is expected to become more streamlined and less time-consuming

For Employees

The SID visa gives skilled workers more flexibility and security:

  • Easier to switch employers

  • More time to find a new sponsor if you leave your job (up to 180 days, up from 60)

  • All streams offer clear pathways to permanent residency

  • Longer visa durations mean less stress and greater stability

Work Need Help Navigating Your Options ?

We’re here to support both employers and skilled migrants. Get in touch with ThinkOz Migration Centre for personalised advice and step-by-step support.