Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) | Wintr Consulting

Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)

The new framework for sponsoring skilled workers. Replacing the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa.

The Skills in Demand (SID) visa superseded the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa in December 2024. While the name has changed, the visa subclass 482 remains the same as does its core objective in allowing Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers where there are genuine skill shortages within the business.

The Three Streams

Core Skills Stream

For employers to source skilled overseas workers who:

Are nominated in an occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Earn at least the Core Skills Income Threshold ($76,515 as of 1 July 2025) and no less than Australian workers in the same occupation.

Specialist Skills Stream

For employers to source skilled overseas workers who:

Are nominated in a 6 digit ANZSCO 2022 occupation in Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6.
Earn at least the Specialist Skills Income Threshold ($141,210 as of 1 July 2025) and no less than Australian workers in the same occupation.

Labour Agreement Stream

Where an employer has a work agreement with the Australian Government to source skilled overseas workers because there is a demonstrated need that cannot be met within the Australian labour market.

The 3-Stage Process

It is entirely possible to submit all three applications on the same day provided they meet validity and eligibility criteria, and they are submitted in that order.

Sponsorship (SBS)

Application for the employer to become a recognised sponsor. Identifies lawful/active trade. Valid for five years.

Nomination

The business provides information on the position, employment contract, and evidence of genuine need. This stage requires high precision.

Visa Application

Applicants provide evidence of qualifications, at least 1 year work experience, English, health, and character requirements.

Case Study: The Mechanical Engineer

Scenario: You are on a 485 Graduate visa working as a Mechanical Engineer. Your visa expires in 3 months.

Solution: Your employer wants to keep you but finds the process tricky (Labour Market Testing, Market Salary). They engage Wintr Consulting.

Outcome: We confirm you can continue working while the 482 is pending. You feel relieved and return to focusing on your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has the TSS 482 visa really been “replaced” and what does that mean for applications?

Yes. On 7 December 2024, the Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaced the TSS program. TSS applications lodged before that date are assessed per the TSS regulations.

How many years of work experience do I need now?

1 year of relevant experience is required, reduced from 2 years under TSS program. It’s important to note that the work experience is no longer a ‘time of decision’ requirement, meaning you must have the work experience at time of application.

Can I lodge sponsorship, nomination and visa on the same day?

Yes. They must be lodged in order SBS → nomination → visa. This is common practice amongst immigration professionals.

Can I add my family members after I’ve submitted my visa application?

Adding family members after you submit your application is known as applying for ‘subsequent entrant’ applications. Family members must complete a visa application and pay the fee.

If my occupation changes, do I need a new visa?

Changing occupations means you must apply for a new 482 nomination and visa so you can be assessed for those skills and experience. A change in duties in your existing occupation does not necessarily call for a new application. To better understand your visa and ensure you remain compliant with the conditions, please book a consultation to discuss further.

What if I change employers while on my 482 visa?

Under new reforms, 482 visa holders now have up to 180 days to find a new sponsor after ceasing work with the current sponsor.

Can I work for someone else while still employed by my sponsor?

No. A condition of your visa is that you must only work in your nominated occupation for your approved sponsor, unless you’ve ceased employment and within the allowed transition period.

What happens if I get a pay rise?

A pay rise will not affect your visa, and generally it does not need to be notified to the Department unless the pay rise is associated with a new position and duties that is outside your nominated occupation. In this instance, a new visa may be required. Contact us today to discuss further.

How long is the visa stay and does all time count toward permanent residency?

The 482 visa allows up to 4 years stay. Two years working with any approved employer in the same occupation will now count towards permanent residency pathways.

Do I need a Skills Assessment for this visa?

A Skills Assessment is only mandatory for specific occupations and circumstances, details are found here. In most other cases, you do not need a skills assessment for a subclass 482 visa.