Skilled Sponsored Visa Types
Temporary Skill Shortage
The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS), helps Australian employers fill gaps in their workforce when suitably skilled Australians aren’t available. If you’ve been offered a skilled position in Australia, this visa can enable you (and eligible family members) to live and work there for a defined period. This visa addresses skill shortages in the Australian labor market and provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible applicants.
Visa Streams / Types
There are four main streams under Subclass 482:
- Short-Term Stream
- Medium-Term Stream
- Labour Agreement Stream
- Subsequent Entrant
Each stream has its own eligibility requirements, duration, and rights.
What You Get with Subclass 482
Depending on which stream you apply under, some of the benefits include:
- Permission to work in your nominated occupation for the sponsoring employer in Australia
- Ability to travel in & out of Australia during the validity of your visa
- Inclusion of eligible family members (partner, dependent children) in your application
- Potential pathway later to permanent residency (under certain streams)
| Stream | Duration & Validity | Main Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Stream | Usually up to 2 years (can extend to 4 years if an International Trade Obligation applies) |
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| Medium-Term Stream | Up to 4 years; may lead to extensions or pathway to PR |
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| Labour Agreement Stream | Up to 4 years (conditions depend on negotiated agreement) |
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| Subsequent Entrant | Same validity as the primary visa holder’s stream |
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| Stream | Duration & Validity | Main Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Stream | Usually up to 2 years (can extend to 4 years if an International Trade Obligation applies) |
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| Medium-Term Stream | Up to 4 years; may lead to PR pathways |
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| Labour Agreement Stream | Up to 4 years (per agreement terms) |
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| Subsequent Entrant | Same validity as the primary visa holder’s stream |
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Other Key Requirements
- Nomination by employer: Your employer must be approved to sponsor you.
- Occupation eligibility: Your nominated role must appear on the relevant skilled occupations list for the stream.
- Work experience & skills: Usually, at least two years of relevant work experience is required & any necessary skill assessments.
- English language ability: Meet minimum English test scores unless exempt.
- Health & Character: All applicants (and dependents) must satisfy health and character checks.
- Cost & Fees: Visa application charges, plus costs for skills assessment, English tests, health checks, and police certificates.
Processing Times & Validity
- Short-Term Stream: Processing typically takes X-Y months (you should check current governmental processing times).
- Medium-Term & Labour Agreement Streams: Often faster or comparable depending on the case, but still varies.
Visa duration depends on the stream: Short-Term up to 2 or 4 years, Medium-Term up to 4 years, Labour Agreement streams may have special terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I apply for permanent residency after holding a Subclass 482 visa?
Yes, after holding a Subclass 482 visa for a specified period and meeting certain criteria, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187).
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Can I change employers while on a Subclass 482 visa?
You can change employers while on a Subclass 482 visa, but your new employer must submit a new nomination application, and you must be granted a new visa.
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Can my family join me on a Subclass 482 visa?
Yes, you can include your family members in your visa application. They will have the same rights to live, work, and study in Australia as you do.
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What happens if my employer withdraws their nomination?
If your employer withdraws their nomination, your visa may be canceled. You will need to find a new employer to sponsor you or explore other visa options.
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How long does it take to process a Subclass 482 visa application?
Processing times vary depending on the stream and individual circumstances. Generally, processing times are:
- Short-Term Stream: Approximately 8 to 11 months.
- Medium-Term Stream: Approximately 5 to 8 months.
- Labour Agreement Stream: Approximately 5 to 8 months.