The New Skills in Demand Visa: What It Means for You

Australia’s work visa system has changed, and the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa is now replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482). If you’re an employer or a visa holder, you might be wondering: How does this affect me? Here’s what you need to know in simple terms!

Switching Employers? Not So Fast!

Under the new SID visa, workers can’t just jump to a new job—their new employer must first get an approved nomination. That means no starting work until the paperwork is sorted.

Full-Time Work is (Mostly) the Rule

Most SID visa holders must be employed full-time unless their occupation qualifies for an exemption. Also, workers’ salaries need to meet the required income threshold:

• Core Skills Stream → Must meet the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT)

• Specialist Skills Stream → Must meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT)

Changing Roles? There’s a Process

Thinking of promoting a worker or giving them new responsibilities? Here’s the deal:

• Promotions are fine—as long as the worker’s duties don’t change.

• New responsibilities = new nomination → That means a new visa application is required.

Moving Locations? Check the Rules First

Some visas require workers to stay in a specific location, so before relocating someone, make sure their visa allows it.

Salary Increases Are Allowed, But…

• Good news: Employers can pay workers more without needing a new visa.

• Bad news: If the pay raise comes with new job duties, then a new nomination and visa application are required.

What Happens If a Worker Leaves?

If a worker resigns or is let go, employers must:

• Notify the government within 28 days.

• Ensure the visa holder finds a new sponsor, applies for another visa, or leaves Australia within 180 days.

• Cover reasonable travel costs if they need to leave.

If a worker overstays, employers may have to pay for their removal from Australia.

Taking Over Sponsorship? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you want to sponsor a worker who’s currently with another employer, you must:

• Be an approved sponsor for their visa.

• Lodge a new nomination (unless they’re moving from a Labour Agreement to a Standard Business Sponsor, in which case a new visa is needed).

A Pathway to Permanent Residency

One of the best updates: SID visa holders can now transition to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)—offering long-term stability for both employers and workers.

Need More Skilled Workers? You Can Sponsor More!

If your business needs more skilled employees, you can nominate additional overseas workers to fill job shortages.

The Skills in Demand Visa brings new rules and opportunities for businesses and skilled workers. Whether you’re hiring, relocating, or promoting, knowing the process will help things go smoothly.

Hiring from overseas? Now’s the time to explore your options!