What is Visa 482?
The Australian Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482), commonly referred to as the 482 visa, is designed to allow employers in Australia to address skill shortages by bringing in skilled workers from overseas to fill positions where there are no suitable Australian workers available.
Key Features of the 482 Visa:
- Streams:
- Short-Term Stream:
- For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
- Valid for up to 2 years (or up to 4 years if an international trade obligation applies).
- Can be renewed onshore only once.
- Pathway to permanent residency is generally not available under this stream.
- Medium-Term Stream:
- For occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Regional Occupation List (ROL).
- Valid for up to 4 years.
- Can be renewed onshore multiple times.
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (Subclass 186).
- Labour Agreement Stream:
- For employers who have entered into a labour agreement with the Australian government.
- Valid for up to 4 years.
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency, depending on the terms of the labour agreement.
- Short-Term Stream:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Sponsorship: Applicants must have a job offer from an Australian employer who is an approved business sponsor.
- Skills and Experience: Applicants must have the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience relevant to the nominated occupation.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the required level of English proficiency. Vocational English is required for this visa. Read more on Vocational English here Vocational English
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character standards.
- Nomination Process:
- The employer must first be approved as a sponsor and then nominate the position for the overseas worker. The nomination must demonstrate that the role is genuine and that there are no suitable Australian workers for the position.
- Work Rights and Conditions:
- Holders of the 482 visa can work full-time in the nominated occupation for their sponsoring employer.
- They can bring eligible family members with them to Australia, who will have the right to work and study in Australia.
- Visa Duration:
- The duration of the visa depends on the stream under which the visa is granted and the occupation’s status on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency:
- For those on the Medium-Term Stream or under a labour agreement, there may be a pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
Application Process:
- The application process involves the employer applying for sponsorship, nominating the position, and then the visa applicant lodging their application. The processing times can vary depending on the stream and the complexity of the application.
The 482 visa is a crucial tool for addressing skills shortages in Australia’s labor market, allowing businesses to access the talent they need while providing opportunities for skilled workers from around the world.
Applying for an Australian Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) involves several steps. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
1. Check Eligibility
- Occupation: Ensure your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list (Short-Term Skilled Occupation List, Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List, or the Regional Occupation List).
- Skills and Qualifications: You must have the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience for the position.
- English Language Proficiency: Meet the English language requirements.
- Health and Character Requirements: Pass the health examination and character requirements.
- Work Experience: Typically, at least two years of work experience in your occupation.
2. Find an Employer
- Sponsorship: You need a job offer from an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor you. The employer must be an approved sponsor or apply to become one.
3. Employer’s Role
- Nomination: Your employer must nominate you for a position. This involves providing evidence that the position is genuine and that there is a need for a skilled worker from overseas.
- Labour Market Testing (LMT): The employer may need to show that they have attempted to recruit an Australian worker for the role.
4. Prepare Your Documents
- Skills Assessment: If required, obtain a skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
- Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, etc.
- Qualifications and Work Experience: Provide certificates, transcripts, and references.
- English Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or other approved test results Vocational English
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage.
- Other Documents: Any other documents as specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
5. Apply for the Visa
- Create an ImmiAccount: Go to the Department of Home Affairs website, and create an ImmiAccount
- Submit Application: Complete the visa application form, attach the required documents, and pay the visa application fee.
- Biometrics: You may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).
6. Visa Decision
- Processing Time: The processing time can vary based on your situation and the stream under which you apply. The average processing time is between 1 to 5 months.
- Notification: You will receive a notification from the Department of Home Affairs regarding the outcome of your application.
7. Travel to Australia
- Once your visa is granted, you can travel to Australia and start working in the nominated position.
Important Notes:
- Ensure that your employer is fully aware of their obligations as a sponsor.
- You should also stay informed about any changes in visa regulations that might affect your application.
You can start your application and find detailed information on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.
