Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers to fill job shortages in occupations where no local workers are available. This visa enables employers to hire overseas talent to support their business needs while ensuring Australians have priority access to jobs.
This visa has three streams:
- Short-Term Stream – For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), allowing a stay of up to two years (or four years for certain applicants).
- Medium-Term Stream – For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), permitting a stay of up to four years and offering a pathway to permanent residency.
- Labour Agreement Stream – For workers sponsored through a labour agreement between an employer and the Australian government.
With a Subclass 482 visa, you can:
- Work for an approved sponsor in Australia.
- Live and work in Australia for the duration of your visa.
- Travel freely in and out of Australia.
- Include eligible family members in your application.
Who is eligible for a TSS visa?
To qualify for a Subclass 482 visa, you must:
Be sponsored by an approved Australian employer.
Have a job in an eligible skilled occupation.
Meet minimum work experience requirements (usually at least two years in the nominated occupation).
Meet English language proficiency requirements.
Meet health and character requirements.
Be sponsored by an approved Australian employer.
Have a job in an eligible skilled occupation.
Meet minimum work experience requirements (usually at least two years in the nominated occupation).
Meet English language proficiency requirements.
Meet health and character requirements.
Can I apply for permanent residency on a 482 visa?
Yes, if you are on the Medium-Term Stream, you may be eligible for a Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa after working for your employer for at least two to three years.
How long does it take to process a 482 visa?
Processing times vary:
Short-Term Stream: 1 to 3 months
Medium-Term Stream: 1 to 3 months
Labour Agreement Stream: Varies based on the agreement
Short-Term Stream: 1 to 3 months
Medium-Term Stream: 1 to 3 months
Labour Agreement Stream: Varies based on the agreement
Can my family accompany me on a TSS visa?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your visa application. They will have work and study rights in Australia.
Can I change employers on a 482 visa?
Yes, but your new employer must nominate you for a new 482 visa before you can start working with them.
What happens if my employment ends while on a 482 visa?
If your employment ends, you have 60 days to:
Find a new employer to sponsor you,
Apply for a different visa, or
Leave Australia.
Find a new employer to sponsor you,
Apply for a different visa, or
Leave Australia.
Do I need a skills assessment for the 482 visa?
Not all occupations require a skills assessment, but some do, depending on the industry and the applicant’s nationality.
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