The New 482 Visa (Skills in Demand) is Finally Here!

On the 7^th of December 2024, the Department of Home Affairs (DOH) introduced the new 482 Skills in Demand Visa (SID) replacing the previously known 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS visa).

In summary, the SID visa has three streams

1. Core Skills Stream: For occupations on the CSOL, with a salary threshold of AUD 73,150+.
2. Specialist Skills Stream: For highly skilled professionals in ANZSCO 2022 occupations (excluding Major Groups 3, 7, and 8), earning at least AUD 135,000annually.
3. Labour Agreement Stream: Transitioning to the Essential Skills Stream, which is currently under development.

The new regulations lowered the minimum relevant work experience requirement for applicants of the SID visa across all categories from two years (the previous standard for the TSS visa) to just one year of full-time employment, or the equivalent amount of part-time or casual work, within the five years leading up to the visa application date.

However, The required English test scores for an applicant to the Specialist Skills stream and Core Skills stream of the Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa are identical to the requirements that previously applied to an applicant to the Medium-term stream of the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa which is an IELTS score (or equivalent) of level 5 overall, with a minimum of 5 in each component score.

For many applicants, this visa will alleviate the stress of feeling tied to a job that may not be the best fit simply because it promises a path to permanent residency. If the work environment is unsatisfactory or the employer-employee relationship is unhealthy, they will have the freedom to seek other opportunities. Therefore, unlike the previous regulations that require visa holders to remain with the same employer for two years to be eligible for permanent residency, this new visa will permit them to work for various employers within their field. This added flexibility is a positive development for applicants, as it provides them with greater freedom and options without the pressure of remaining with a single employer.

Additionally, the new rules are advantageous in cases where employment may unexpectedly end. Under the previous regulations, losing a job could jeopardize one’s chances of attaining permanent residency. This new framework offers a more flexible and realistic approach, providing applicants with a sense of security in their journey toward residency.

Permitting applicants to work with various employers also yields substantial benefits for the economy. Skilled workers will gain diverse experiences, enhancing their adaptability and overall skill set. This variety ultimately strengthens the workforce and contributes positively to Australia as a whole.

In summary, the Skills in Demand visa introduces significant enhancements by offering applicants increased job flexibility, security, and opportunities for professional growth.

If you want to find out more about this new visa program and are interested in becoming a sponsored employee through this pathway, please reach out to us. We can help you understand the new policies and offer you expert guidance and support.