On December 7, 2024, the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) officially replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This change is part of Australia’s revamped migration strategy aimed at meeting critical labour demands while offering clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR).
The new visa system incorporates three streams:
- Core Skills Pathway: For occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Specialist Skills Pathway: For high-earning professionals in designated fields.
- Labour Agreement Pathway: Adopting existing Labour Agreements while evolving into the Essential Skills Pathway.
Let’s explore these pathways, their unique features, and how they pave the way for PR.
Comparing the Streams: Core vs Specialist Skills Pathways
| Feature | Core Skills Pathway | Specialist Skills Pathway |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Threshold | AUD 73,150 (Core Skills Income Threshold – CSIT) | AUD 135,000 (Specialist Skills Income Threshold – SSIT) |
| Occupation Requirements | Must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). Includes trades, machinery operators, and labourers. | No fixed occupation list but must be from ANZSCO Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6. Excludes trades, machinery operators, and labourers. |
| Work Experience | 12 months (equivalent full-time) within the last 5 years. Includes casual and part-time work. | Same as Core Skills Pathway. |
| Processing Time | Standard | Commitment to 7-day median processing time. |
| Visa Duration | Up to 4 years. | Up to 4 years. |
Why Choose the SID Visa?
- Flexibility: Move between sponsors within 180 days.
- PR Opportunities: Simplified pathways under Subclass 186.
- Inclusive Work Experience: Recognises part-time and casual employment.
- Streamlined Processes: Faster visa processing for high-skilled professionals under the Specialist Skills Pathway.
How Visa Finder Can Help
Understanding Australia’s new migration pathways can be complex, but Visa Finder makes the process seamless. Our experienced migration agents can guide you through:
- Assessing your eligibility for the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482).
- Finding the best pathway to Permanent Residency based on your skills and work experience.
- Ensuring compliance with sponsorship and Labour Market Testing (LMT) requirements.
- Streamlining your application process for faster approvals.
- Helping employers navigate visa sponsorship obligations.
Start Your Migration Journey Today!
Visa Finder is here to support you at every step of your migration journey. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire skilled workers or a professional aiming for a long-term future in Australia, our team is ready to assist.
Book a consultation today! Click here to get started, or call us for expert guidance on your visa options.
