Australia’s employer-sponsored skilled migration landscape changed significantly in late 2024 with the introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, Subclass 482. If you’ve been searching for information about the “TSS 482 visa” or “Temporary Skill Shortage visa,” this is its replacement. Here’s what you need to know.

What changed?

The Skills in Demand visa replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa from late 2024. While the subclass number, 482, remains the same, the structure has been substantially redesigned. The new framework introduces three distinct streams, updated occupation lists, and revised salary thresholds.

The three streams

The Core Skills Stream covers occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). It is the most commonly used stream and requires the position to be paid at least at the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). Labour Market Testing applies to most occupations in this stream.

The Specialist Skills Stream is for highly specialised roles attracting above-threshold remuneration. There is no requirement for the occupation to appear on a specified list, making this stream more flexible for senior and technical roles that don’t fit standard occupation classifications.

The Labour Agreement Stream applies where an employer has entered into a formal Labour Agreement with the Department of Home Affairs, typically for industries or workforce situations that can’t be accommodated through the standard streams.

For employers

Before nominating a worker under any SID stream, your business must hold an approved Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS). Employers also have ongoing obligations including paying the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy, meeting Labour Market Testing requirements, and ensuring sponsored workers are employed in their nominated occupation.

For skilled workers

The SID visa is commonly the first step toward permanent residence in Australia. After holding a SID visa with your employer for at least two of the past three years, you may be eligible for permanent residence via the Employer Nomination Scheme, Subclass 186.

Get current advice

If you’re an employer sponsoring workers or a skilled professional on an employer-sponsored visa, make sure your advice reflects the current SID visa framework, not the former TSS. Contact LRG Lawyers on +61 2 8084 2142 or email info@lrglawyers.com.au.