Temporary Employer Sponsored Visas | Australian Migration Law Pty Ltd

Subclass 482 is now the Skills in Demand Visa

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) has been restructured and is now referred to as the Skills in Demand (SID) visa. This visa allows approved employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers when they cannot find suitably qualified Australian workers.

From 1 July 2025, skilled visa income thresholds will increase annually in line with the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE) indexation.

Basic Eligibility

To qualify for a Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa, applicants must:

Be nominated for a skilled position by an approved sponsor
Have the right skills, qualifications, and experience to perform the nominated role
Meet the relevant English language requirements

Streams of the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

1. Core Skills Stream

Designed for occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List.
Stay: Up to 4 years (Hong Kong passport holders may stay up to 5 years).
Cost: From AUD $3,210.
Processing: Timeframes vary – check the Visa Processing Time Guide Tool.

This stream addresses general labour shortages where local recruitment is not possible.

2. Specialist Skills Stream

For highly skilled professionals in ANZSCO Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6.
Must meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (higher than the standard TSMIT).
Stay: Up to 4 years (Hong Kong passport holders up to 5 years).
Cost: From AUD $3,210.
Processing: Indicative only – check the official guide.

This stream fast-tracks critical specialist roles in Australia’s workforce.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

For skilled workers sponsored under a Labour Agreement between an employer and the Australian Government.
Labour Agreements are designed for industries and regions with unique skills shortages.
Stay: Up to 4 years (Hong Kong passport holders up to 5 years).
Cost: From AUD $3,210.
Processing: Indicative only – check the official guide.

This stream provides flexibility for employers to negotiate specific concessions.

4. Subsequent Entrant (Family Members)

For family members of Subclass 457 or 482 visa holders applying separately to join the primary visa holder.
Stay: Aligned with the primary visa holder’s visa validity.
Cost: From AUD $3,210.
Processing: Indicative only – check the official guide.

Key Considerations for Employers

Employers must:

Be an approved Standard Business Sponsor or hold a Labour Agreement
Ensure salary levels meet TSMIT or Specialist Skills thresholds
Meet Labour Market Testing (LMT) requirements, unless an exemption applies
Pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy – costs cannot be transferred to the visa applicant
Comply with strict sponsorship obligations to avoid penalties

Key Considerations for Applicants

Applicants must:

Have at least two years of relevant work experience
Meet English language requirements (unless exempt)
Provide skills assessments if required by their occupation and nationality
Meet health and character requirements

The restructured Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482) is central to Australia’s migration system, with clearer pathways for skilled workers to enter and support Australia’s workforce needs. The key streams: Core Skills, Specialist Skills, Labour Agreement, and Subsequent Entrant, offer flexibility for both employers and employees.

With the annual indexation of skilled visa income thresholds from July 2025, compliance will be more important than ever for employers and applicants alike.

At Australian Migration Law, our experienced team can help both employers and skilled migrants navigate the complexities of the new system to ensure successful outcomes.

Disclaimer

The content of this article is for information purposes only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the materials contained here and incorporated by reference, this article is not intended to constitute legal or immigration advice or assistance.

No person should act on the basis of the material contained in this presentation without obtaining advice relevant to their own circumstances and without considering and taking professional advice as may be necessary.

For tailored advice and comprehensive assistance with your migration matter, contact our experienced Australian immigration lawyers today. You can reach us by email at admin@australianmigrationlaw.com.au or phone +61 407 662 682 to obtain further guidance.