Skills in Demand Visa
The Skills in Demand Visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa from 7 December 2024, moving to a three-tiered system for applicants based on their annual earnings and occupation
Specialist Skills Pathway
Core Skills Pathway
Essential Skills Pathway
No occupation list applies, but trades workers, machine operators, drivers and labourers are excluded. Requires guaranteed annual earnings of at least AUD 141,210 (for nominations lodged 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026) and will be indexed annually
For occupations on the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Requires guaranteed annual earnings of at least AUD 76,515 (1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026) and will be indexed annually
For occupations earning under AUD 76,515 per annum and working in designated sectors (details still being finalised)
Key eligibility features include:
Visa duration: up to 4 years for most streams.
Work experience requirement: at least 12 months full-time equivalent in the last five years in a role relevant to the nominated occupation.
English language: must meet the required standard (for example, equivalent to IELTS 5) unless exempt.
Employer obligations: a valid approved employer nomination is required; the employer must meet financial capacity obligations and pay at least the annual market salary for the nominee for the period of nomination.
Pathway to permanent residency: time spent under this visa counts towards eligible residency pathways (such as the Employer Nomination Scheme subclass 186).
Transitional arrangements: nominations lodged before 7 December 2024 may continue under prior rules.
Salary thresholds (indicative) for nominations lodged 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026:
Specialist Skills Pathway: minimum annual earnings of AUD 141,210.
Core Skills Pathway: minimum annual earnings of AUD 76,515.
Occupations and lists:
The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) has been updated for this visa and covers occupations where there are recognised shortages.
Some occupations previously eligible have been removed.
Before you apply:
Confirm your nominated occupation is eligible under the correct pathway (Specialist, Core, or Essential) and meets any list or salary thresholds.
Ensure the salary offer meets or exceeds the threshold for the pathway you apply under.
Confirm you meet the experience, English, health and character requirements.
Review any transitional rules if your nomination was lodged before 7 December 2024.
Check your employer sponsor is approved, meets financial obligations and is capable of paying the required salary.
482 Visa: Key Eligibility Criteria
If you're considering the TSS Visa, here's what you need to know. You could be a suitable candidate if an Australian company is ready to back your application and you meet the criteria below:
1. Your Job Role:
Your profession or expertise should be recognized on one of the specific skilled occupation lists associated with the 482 Visa. These lists are:
- Short-Term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL): For roles in demand for a shorter duration.
- Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): For professions needed over a longer timeframe.
- Regional Occupation List (ROL): For roles in demand in regional areas.
2. Your Sponsor:
An established Standard Business Sponsor should nominate you. If they aren't already recognized as such, the business should apply for Standard Business Sponsorship. Additionally, they need to submit a nomination application on your behalf.
In essence, the 482 Visa is about matching skilled individuals with businesses in Australia that genuinely need their expertise.
482 Visa: Detailed Eligibility Breakdown
1. Professional Experience:
- You should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in the occupation you're being nominated for or a closely related role.
- This experience should have been acquired within the 5 years leading up to your application.
- While part-time roles can count towards this requirement, casual positions won't be considered.
- Note: Depending on your profession and your country of origin, you might need a skill assessment before applying. Some assessment bodies might require more than the standard 2 years of experience.
2. Skill Assessment:
Certain primary applicants for the TSS visa must successfully complete a skills assessment to qualify. It's essential to check whether your profession requires this assessment.
3. Age Requirement:
Good news! The TSS (Subclass 482) Visa doesn't have an age cap.
4. Health Insurance:
If you're granted the 482 Temporary Visa, it's crucial to have and maintain sufficient health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Australia.
In a nutshell, the 482 Visa is about ensuring that you have the right skills, experience, and credentials to fill the role you're being nominated for in Australia.