Replaced TSS (Temporary Skill Shortage) on 7 December 2024. Sponsored employer-based work permit, 1-4 year duration, with a clearer path to PR via the new Skills in Demand stream.
Official name: Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)
Not legal or immigration advice
This page summarizes publicly available information from official immigration authorities. Visa rules change frequently and individual circumstances matter. Verify with the relevant consulate, embassy, or a licensed immigration attorney before applying.
$6,500–$15,000
30–120 days
48 months
Yes
The Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482), introduced 7 December 2024, replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. It is Australia's primary employer-sponsored work permit, with three streams differentiated by occupation and salary: Specialist Skills (high-earner / shortage), Core Skills (most occupations), and Essential Skills (lower-paid roles, capped). The visa is granted for up to 4 years, requires an Australian employer holding a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) licence, a nominated occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), and a salary at or above the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT, AUD 73,150 from 2024). Holders can apply for permanent residence via the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after 2-3 years on the 482, or directly via the Skilled Independent (189) / Nominated (190) points-based system. Australian citizenship requires 4 years of lawful residence including 1 year as PR.
Government fee
$2,200
Lawyer / agent
$3,000–$8,000
All-in (incl. medical, translation, travel)
$6,500–$15,000
Minimum income/savings: ~$47,500/year. AUD 73,150 TSMIT (Core Skills stream, 2024). Specialist Skills stream requires AUD 135,000+. Essential Skills stream allows lower salaries with capped numbers.
Initial visa
48 months
Path to residency
2 years
Path to citizenship
6 years
482 holders staying 183+ days are Australian tax residents on worldwide income. ATO progressive rates 0-47% (incl. 2% Medicare Levy). Top combined marginal 47% above AUD 190K. Foreign tax residents do not get the AUD 18,200 tax-free threshold and pay 30%+ from dollar 1 — most 482 holders should establish residency status carefully. Mandatory employer superannuation 12% (FY2025-26) above stated salary. See /tax/calculator/au for 2026 estimates. The 482 PR conversion (via Subclass 186 ENS) typically requires 2-3 years on 482 plus employer nomination.
Triggering threshold: more than 183 days physical presence.