Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia: The New Skills in Demand (SID) Visa subclass 482
As of 7 December 2024, Australia has introduced a major reform to its skilled migration system, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) with the Skills in Demand (SID) visa. This change not only expands opportunities for skilled workers but also provides a clearer, more accessible pathway to permanent residency (PR).
If you are a skilled professional looking to live and work in Australia long-term, the SID visa could be your gateway to PR. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why the SID Visa is a Game Changer for PR Seekers
One of the biggest advantages of the new SID visa is that it offers a smoother transition to permanent residency. Unlike the previous system, where some TSS visa holders had limited PR options, the SID visa makes it more straightforward for skilled workers to secure permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa.
Key Benefits of the SID Visa for PR:
Longer stay in Australia (up to 4 years)
No more 2-year employer requirement for PR eligibility
Expanded occupation list for direct PR pathways
Easier job mobility while working toward PR
Greater flexibility for family members applying for PR
Your Pathways to Permanent Residency
1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream – Faster PR Access
The biggest change under the new system is removing the two-year employer requirement for PR eligibility.
Previously, TSS visa holders had to work for their sponsoring employer for two years before applying for PR. This restriction is now gone.
Now, as an SID visa holder, you can apply for PR under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Subclass 186 visa after completing your temporary work period—even if you’ve changed employers.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Stream – Expanded PR Opportunities
The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) now applies to the Direct Entry (DE) stream of the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, replacing the old Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
What this means for you:
More occupations are now eligible for direct PR
Key sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction benefit from a streamlined PR process
No prior employment in Australia is required—if your occupation is on the CSOL, you may be able to apply directly for PR
3. More Flexibility for Family Members
The SID visa also makes it easier for family members to be included in the PR application.
Dependents aged 23 and above can now be included in your PR application if they were granted an SID visa as part of your family unit.
Employers no longer have sponsorship obligations for family members, reducing paperwork and making the process more employer-friendly.
What’s Next? Take the Next Step Toward PR
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa represents a huge opportunity for skilled workers looking to build a long-term future in Australia.
With faster PR processing, more eligible occupations, and greater flexibility, now is the time to assess your options and take the next step toward securing permanent residency.
