Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa Subclass 482
The Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS) is a visa that allows Australian employers to bring in skilled workers from overseas when they can’t find suitable local workers for specific roles. It’s designed to help fill skill gaps in Australia’s workforce by allowing companies to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis.
With a 482 visa, you can work in Australia for the employer who sponsors you in the job they nominated you for. This visa is ideal for short- to medium-term roles, lasting up to two or four years, depending on the job and the stream you qualify for. In some cases, this visa can also be a stepping stone to permanent residency, offering a long-term option for those who wish to stay in Australia.
Benefits of the Subclass 482 Visa
Work in Australia
Subclass 482 visa holders can live and work in Australia for their sponsoring employer for up to four years.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
In some cases, TSS visa holders may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) after meeting the requirements.
Travel Freedom
Visa holders can travel in and out of Australia as many times as needed during the visa period.
Flexible Sponsorship
Employers can sponsor workers either for short-term or medium to long-term skills shortages based on their needs.
Family Inclusion
You can include eligible family members (spouse and children) in your application, and they will enjoy similar rights to live, work, and study in Australia.
Subclass 482 Visa
MAIN REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Subclass 482 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
Sponsorship
You must have a job offer from an approved Australian business that is willing to sponsor you.
Nominated Occupation
Your job must be on the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL).
Skills and Experience
You must have the required skills, qualifications, and work experience for the nominated role.
English Language Proficiency
You will need to meet the minimum English language proficiency requirement unless exempted.
Health and Character
You must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
Labour Market Testing (LMT)
In many cases, your employer must prove that they have advertised the position locally and could not find a suitable Australian candidate.
Different Streams of Subclass 482 Visa
Short-Term Stream
For occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Valid for up to 2 years, or 4 years if an international trade obligation applies.
Can be renewed once onshore.
No pathway to permanent residency.
Medium-Term Stream
For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Valid for up to 4 years.
Renewable with an option to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS).
Labour Agreement Stream
For workers who are sponsored by an employer through a labour agreement between the Australian government and the employer.
Designed to fill labor shortages in specialized sectors where standard visa streams do not meet the business’s needs.
Steps to apply for the Subclass 482 Visa
Employer Sponsorship
Your employer must become an approved sponsor by applying to the Department of Home Affairs.
1
Nomination of Position
Your employer must nominate a specific position that fits the skilled occupation list and meet all the associated conditions.
2
Visa Application
After your employer's sponsorship and nomination are approved, you can apply for the Subclass 482 visa. You will need to submit documents proving your skills, work experience, and English language proficiency.
3
Health and Character Checks
Undergo required health checks and provide character certificates, including police clearances.
4
Visa Decision
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to assess your visa application and make a decision. If approved, you will receive your visa and can start working in Australia for your sponsor.
5
Current Processing Time: Subclass 482 Visa
When it comes to the processing timeline, several factors can impact your application. These include the quality of submitted documents and the volume of applications received by the Department.
| Stream | 50% applications are processed in | 90% applications are processed in |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term stream | 33 Days | 5 Months |
| Medium-Term stream | 31 Days | 5 Months |
| Labour Agreement Streamm | 37 Days | 5 Months |
Frequently
Asked
Questions
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Yes, you can change employers, but the new employer must be an approved sponsor, and they must nominate you for a new role that fits your skill set.
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If you are on the Medium-Term or Labour Agreement stream, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency after meeting specific conditions, such as working for your employer for three years.
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If your employment ends, you generally have 60 days to find a new sponsor or apply for a different visa. If you cannot secure new sponsorship, you will need to leave Australia.
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Yes, you can include eligible family members such as your spouse or children in your visa application. They will have similar work, study, and travel rights in Australia.
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Yes, you can study while holding this visa, but you are not eligible for government financial assistance (such as HECS) for your studies.
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Labour Market Testing requires the employer to show that they have advertised the position locally and could not find a suitable Australian worker. This is mandatory for most Subclass 482 applications unless exemptions apply due to trade agreements or other reasons.