Everything you need to know about the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (formerly TSS) visa: streams, income thresholds, eligible occupations, PR pathway via 186, and how to find sponsoring employers in Australia.
The Subclass 482 visa (rebranded as the Skills in Demand (SID) visa in December 2024, previously Temporary Skill Shortage or TSS) is the most common pathway for skilled overseas workers to take employer-sponsored jobs in Australia. It lets an approved sponsor hire you for a nominated occupation for up to 4 years, with a clear route to permanent residency.
| Visa type | Temporary, employer-sponsored |
| Duration | Up to 4 years (extendable in some streams) |
| Work rights | Full-time for your sponsor in the nominated occupation |
| Streams | Specialist Skills, Core Skills, Essential Skills |
| PR pathway | Eligible for 186 ENS after 2 years on a 482 |
| Age limit | None (but PR pathway caps at 45) |
| English | IELTS 5.0 or equivalent (Core Skills), varies by stream |
| Approx. base cost | ~A$3,200 main applicant (check current fee) |
Browse live 482-eligible jobs on InnoMYLE
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Skilled professionals, tradespeople, and care workers whose occupation is on the relevant Skills in Demand list and who have a genuine job offer from an approved Australian sponsor. Common profiles include:
Specialist Skills Stream
For high-earning roles with a salary at or above the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (A$135,000+). Fastest processing and broadest occupation eligibility.
Core Skills Stream
The default pathway for most skilled workers. Occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), salary must meet the Core Skills Income Threshold (currently A$73,150+).
Essential Skills Stream
For lower-paid roles in sectors with critical shortages, typically aged care, disability support, and some trades. Accessed via labour agreements.
Secure a job offer
From an Australian employer approved as a Standard Business Sponsor, or one willing to become one.
Sponsor is approved
If not already accredited, the employer applies for sponsorship approval (once granted, valid for 5 years).
Employer lodges nomination
The sponsor nominates you for the specific position and demonstrates labour market need where required.
You lodge the visa application
Submit identity, health, character, skills, and English evidence. Police checks and medicals required.
Decision
Processing typically takes 1–6 months depending on stream and case complexity. Arrive in Australia within the grant conditions.
After 2 years working for your 482 sponsor (reduced from 3 years under the Migration Strategy reforms), you can apply for the Subclass 186 ENS visa for permanent residency. Some occupations also qualify for state-nominated pathways like 190 or regional 491 visas.
Can I change jobs on a 482 visa?
Yes, but only to another approved sponsor. You have up to 180 days to find a new sponsor and lodge a new nomination. Otherwise you must leave Australia.
How long until I can apply for PR on a 482?
Under current rules, two years of continuous employment with your 482 sponsor in the nominated occupation, then you can apply for the 186 ENS (Temporary Residence Transition stream).
Can I bring family on a 482?
Yes. Partners and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants and have full work and study rights.
What is the minimum salary for a 482?
It depends on the stream. The Core Skills Income Threshold is currently A$73,150, and the Specialist Skills stream requires A$135,000+. Actual salary must also meet the Annual Market Salary Rate for the role.
Is the 482 the same as the TSS?
Yes, the 482 was renamed from Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) to Skills in Demand (SID) in December 2024, with structural changes to streams and thresholds.
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Disclaimer: This information is general guidance only and may change at any time without notice. Immigration law and visa conditions are complex and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au. This content does not constitute legal or migration advice. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or immigration lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
