Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

Looking to work in Australia but can’t find an employer willing to sponsor you? The Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) could be the solution. Replacing the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa on December 7, 2024, this visa is designed to fill skill shortages in key Australian industries.

It allows skilled overseas workers to come and work in Australia for an employer who can’t find the right local talent.

At CIA Lawyers, we are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your visa application is streamlined and hassle-free.

Costs & Details of the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

The costs and details of the Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) is essential for both skilled workers and employers looking to fill critical roles in Australia.

Below is a breakdown of the visa streams, their associated costs, durations, and processing times to help you get started:

Visa Stream	Stay Duration	Cost (AUD)	Processing Time
Core Skills Stream	Up to 4 years (5 years for HK passport holders)	From AUD 3,115	Varies (check guide)
Specialist Skills Stream	Up to 4 years (5 years for HK passport holders)	From AUD 3,115	Varies (check guide)
Labour Agreement Stream	Up to 4 years (5 years for HK passport holders)	From AUD 3,115	Varies (check guide)
Subsequent Entrant	Duration of primary visa holder’s visa	From AUD 3,115	Varies (check guide)

Important Notes:

Processing Times: The processing times for this visa can vary based on individual circumstances. To ensure you’re up to date, always check the visa processing time guide for the latest information.
Cost Variations: The fees listed above are indicative and can fluctuate. Be sure to confirm the most current details before applying to avoid any surprises.

This breakdown should help you understand what to expect when applying for a Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482), making the process smoother and more transparent for you.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Stream

The Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) offers four distinct streams, each designed to cater to different needs. Understanding which stream suits your situation will help you take the best step towards working in Australia.

Let’s break down each stream:

#1. Core Skills Stream

This stream is tailored for workers in occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List. If your role matches one of these in-demand positions, you can be sponsored by an Australian employer facing a local talent shortage.

Duration: Up to 4 years (5 years for Hong Kong passport holders)
Eligibility: You must have the required skills and meet English language proficiency standards.

Why Choose This Stream?

If your occupation is crucial to filling a gap in the Australian workforce, this is your path to a fulfilling career in Australia. Employers in need of your skills can sponsor you, opening doors to long-term opportunities.

#2. Specialist Skills Stream

Designed for workers with expertise in specific occupations (from the ANZSCO list, excluding Major Groups 3, 7, or 8), this stream allows you to be sponsored by an Australian employer in fields where skilled workers are in short supply.

Duration: Up to 4 years (5 years for Hong Kong passport holders)
Eligibility: You must meet the salary threshold and possess the necessary skills and qualifications for the nominated role.

Why Choose This Stream?

If you have specialised skills that are crucial to Australia’s growth, this visa stream is your ticket. It ensures your expertise meets a pressing industry demand, while also offering an attractive salary package.

#3. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is for workers nominated by employers who have a formal Labour Agreement with the Australian Government. These agreements are typically designed to fill niche skill shortages in specific industries.

Duration: Up to 4 years (5 years for Hong Kong passport holders)
Eligibility: Your employer must have an active Labour Agreement in place with the Australian Government.

Why Choose This Stream?

If your employer operates under a Labour Agreement with the government, this stream allows you to access exclusive opportunities. It’s ideal for those with niche skills required in unique industries, ensuring employers can bring in the right talent.

#4. Subsequent Entrant Stream

For family members of Subclass 482 visa holders, this stream allows you to join your loved ones in Australia and enjoy the same work, study, and lifestyle benefits.

Duration: As long as the primary visa holder’s visa is valid
Eligibility: You must be a family member (spouse, child, etc.) of a Subclass 482 or 457 visa holder.

Why Choose This Stream?

This stream is perfect if you’re looking to reunite with your family in Australia. It ensures that you can live, work, and study together in a dynamic and supportive environment.

These four streams of the Subclass 482 visa cater to a variety of skill sets and personal circumstances. Whether you’re a specialist, an essential worker, or looking to bring your family along, the Skills in Demand visa opens doors to incredible opportunities in Australia.

Benefits of the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

The Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) is a great opportunity for both skilled workers and employers looking to address critical workforce gaps. Here’s how it benefits both parties:

For Employers:

Access to Global Talent: When local candidates are scarce, employers can tap into a global pool of skilled workers.
Fill Critical Roles: The visa helps businesses address urgent skill shortages, ensuring they can keep operations running smoothly.
Labour Agreement Flexibility: Employers with a Labour Agreement can hire workers for highly specialised roles that are hard to fill locally.

For Workers:

Work in Australia: This visa offers the chance to live and work in Australia for up to four years, with the potential for a longer stay depending on your situation.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: After holding the 482 visa for three years, skilled workers may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, providing a route to long-term settlement.
Family Inclusion: Workers can bring their immediate family members to Australia under the Subsequent Entrant Stream, so their loved ones can join them in this exciting journey.

Whether you’re a skilled worker looking to make a move or an employer needing specialised talent, the Subclass 482 visa is a fantastic option to explore. Ready to get started? Let CIA Lawyers guide you through the process!

Eligibility Criteria for the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

To be considered for the Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482), you need to meet specific eligibility criteria based on the stream you’re applying for. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what’s required:

For Workers

Nomination: You must be nominated by an approved employer for a skilled position. This means an Australian business must sponsor you for the role.
Skills: You’ll need the relevant qualifications and experience to fill the position. Make sure your skills align with the requirements for the job.
English Language Proficiency: You must meet the English language requirements unless you qualify for an exemption. This is essential to ensure you can communicate effectively in the workplace.
Age: Generally, applicants must be under 45 years old, though exceptions may apply depending on the role and situation.

For Employers

Sponsorship: Your employer needs to be approved by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to sponsor overseas workers.
Labour Market Testing: Employers must prove they couldn’t find a suitable Australian worker for the role, highlighting the need to bring in skilled international talent.
Salary: The salary offered must align with the market rate and meet specific thresholds, such as the Specialist Skills Income Threshold for certain positions.

If you meet these criteria, you could be on the path to securing a Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482) and working in Australia. Getting the right advice and guidance is key to ensuring your application meets all the requirements.

How CIA Lawyers Will Help You Get the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

Applying for the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easy for you! At CIA Lawyers, we simplify the process and guide you every step of the way. Here’s how we can assist:

Expert Advice: We’ll provide expert guidance on which visa stream is best suited to your specific situation, whether you’re an employer or a skilled worker.
Eligibility Assessment: We’ll thoroughly assess your eligibility to ensure you meet all the requirements, from qualifications to English language proficiency, so you can proceed with confidence.
Document Preparation: Gathering and preparing documents can be time-consuming. We’ll help you collect all the necessary paperwork and make sure everything is in order, minimising the risk of delays.
Employer Nomination Assistance: If you’re an employer, we’ll assist you with the nomination process, ensuring all compliance requirements are met and helping you avoid any potential issues with the sponsorship process.
Minimise Mistakes: With our attention to detail, we’ll make sure your application is accurate and complete from the start, reducing the chances of errors that could lead to delays or rejections.
Tailored Solutions: We recognise that each case is unique. Whether you’re a business looking to hire skilled workers or a professional hoping to work in Australia.

At CIA Lawyers, we take care of the complexities of the visa process, letting you focus on what matters most. Let us handle the details so you don’t have to!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I apply for a 482 visa without a job offer?

A: No, you must be nominated by an approved employer for a skilled position in order to apply.

Q: What happens if my nomination is approved but my visa is denied?

A: If your nomination is approved, you can still apply for the visa. If the visa is denied, we’ll guide you on the next steps to reapply.

Q: How long does it take to process a Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482)?

A: Processing times vary depending on the application, but you can use the processing time guide to get an estimate.

Q: Can my family come with me on the Skills in Demand Visa?

A: Yes, under the Subsequent Entrant Stream, your family members can join you in Australia.

Q: Can I transition to permanent residency after holding a 482 visa?

A: Yes, after holding the 482 visa for three years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through other visa pathways.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.