Australia Temporary Skill Shortage Visa

Australia Temporary Skill Shortage Visa - Overview

A 482 visa requires fulfillment of multiple conditions. You may also need to have a positive skills evaluation. You must be nominated by an approved employer, work for them, have at least two years of experience in this profession, and possess the necessary training, credentials, and background.

Checklist  for 482 Visa

You need to assemble a number of documents for your 482 visa application:

Passport and ID:

When applying for a visa 482, you must have a valid passport in addition to any additional identity documents (marriage certificate, ID card, etc.) requested by the Department of Home Affairs.

Experience and qualifications:

Documentation demonstrating your training, experience, and credentials must be submitted. You can include your résumé, certifications and honors that are pertinent, references from prior employers, proof of licensure or registration, and more.

Skills assessment documents:

It might be necessary for you to submit a talent assessment report, depending on the stream of your visa. If this is required, you must include it with your visa application in order to be approved; you must first verify with the immigration office that this is the case.

Proof of English proficiency:

You must present proof that you are at least as proficient in English as required.

Health insurance:

For the duration of your visit in Australia, you need to have a current health insurance policy.
Evidence of your good character:

Submit forms 80 and 1221, along with other documentation, such as police certifications, to demonstrate your good character.

Documents for your partner:

If you are applying for a 482 visa with your spouse, you will also need to provide proof of registered connection, your marriage license, and their identity documents. The character standards must also be fulfilled by your companion.

Documents for your minor children:

You must submit copies of your minor children's passports, birth certificates, and other relevant paperwork. In order to obtain parental consent, a statutory declaration, or other types of consent, you must additionally complete and submit form 1229.

Documents for your adult dependent child:

If you are applying on behalf of dependent children over 18, you will need to provide form 47, character references, identity documents, and any additional documentation proving your child's dependency.

Assistance Documents:

If you are receiving assistance with your application, kindly submit either form 956 or form 956a.

English Requirements for a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in skilled workers from overseas. The English language requirements for this visa vary based on the occupation and the stream under which the visa is being applied. Here are the general requirements:

General English Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate their English proficiency through one of the following approved tests:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

  • Minimum overall score of 5.0.
  • Minimum score of 4.5 in each test component (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).

Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT):

  • Minimum total score of 35.
  • Minimum score of 3 in listening and reading.
  • Minimum score of 12 in writing.
  • Minimum score of 13 in speaking.

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic):

  • Minimum overall score of 36.
  • Minimum score of 30 in each test component.

Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE):

  • Minimum overall score of 154.
  • Minimum score of 147 in each test component.

Occupational English Test (OET):

  • Minimum score of B in each test component.

Document Checklist for Your Sponsor

Your sponsor needs to prepare many documents in addition to the nomination when they submit it:

Identification documents:

Your date of birth, full name, and any other information pertaining to the job must be provided by your sponsor.

Employment contract:

Unless they are exempt, your employer is required to furnish a copy of your employment contract.

Evidence of the AMSR:

The person who nominated you for the visa needs to show that they will match the income threshold for temporary skilled migration with an annual market salary rate.

Evidence of labour market testing:

Proof that the labor market has been examined and that no Australian citizen or permanent resident is qualified for the position must be provided by your sponsor.

Proof of a genuine position:

Your company must provide proof that the position is open and that you will be carrying out the duties outlined in your contract.

Proof of exemptions:

Your employer must present proof that they meet the exemption standards if they think the nominated position is subject to restrictions or that labor marketing testing is not necessary.

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in skilled workers from overseas. To be eligible for this visa, both the applicant and the sponsoring employer must meet certain criteria. Here’s a detailed look at the eligibility criteria:

For the Applicant

Skills and Qualifications:
Must have the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience for the nominated occupation.
The occupation must be listed on the relevant skilled occupation list:

  • Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
  • Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
  • Regional Occupation List (ROL)

Provide evidence of relevant work experience.

English Language Proficiency:
Must meet the required English language standards, usually demonstrated by an English language test such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, or OET.
Exemptions apply to passport holders from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland, and those who have completed at least five years of study in English.

Health Requirements:
Must meet the health standards set by the Australian government. This may involve undergoing a medical examination.

Character Requirements:
Must meet the character requirements, which involve providing a police certificate from each country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

Work Experience:
Generally, must have at least two years of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation or a related field.

Genuine Temporary Entrant:
Must genuinely intend to stay temporarily in Australia and comply with any visa conditions.
For the Employer (Sponsor)

Approved Sponsor:
Must be an approved business sponsor or have applied to become an approved sponsor.

Nomination:
Must nominate a skilled position that fits one of the skilled occupation lists.
The position must be genuine and fit within the business activities of the employer.

Market Salary Rates:
Must provide terms and conditions of employment that are no less favorable than those provided to an equivalent Australian worker.
The salary must meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).

Labour Market Testing (LMT):
Must demonstrate efforts to recruit Australian workers before hiring a foreign worker. This involves advertising the position within four months before lodging the nomination application.

Complying with Australian Laws:
Must comply with workplace and other Australian laws.
Must have a strong record or commitment to employing local labor.
Streams and Their Specific Criteria

Short-Term Stream:
For occupations listed on the STSOL.
The visa is granted for up to two years (or up to four years if an International Trade Obligation applies).

Medium-Term Stream:
For occupations listed on the MLTSSL and the ROL.
The visa is granted for up to four years, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency.

Labour Agreement Stream:
For employers who have a labor agreement with the Australian Government.
The terms of the labor agreement dictate the specifics of the nomination and sponsorship.

Subsequent Entrant:
For family members of TSS visa holders who wish to join them in Australia.

Application Process for Getting a 482 Visa

Here are the steps for applying for a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) Step by Step:

Find an Approved Sponsor: Secure a job offer from an Australian employer who is an approved sponsor.

Nomination: Your employer submits a nomination for the position they are offering you.

Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents such as your passport, qualifications, work experience, and English language test results.

Health Check: Undergo a medical examination to meet health requirements.
Character Check: Provide police certificates from each country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

Apply Online: Lodge your visa application online through the Australian Government's immigration website.

Pay Fees: Pay the required visa application fee.

Wait for Decision: Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application.
Provide Additional Information: If requested, submit any additional documents or information.

Receive Visa: If approved, receive your visa grant notification and prepare to move to Australia for your new job.

482 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) can vary depending on several factors, including the completeness of your application, the stream under which you apply, and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. Generally, processing times can range from a few weeks to several months.

For applications under the Short-Term Stream, processing times are typically shorter, often taking around 2 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, applications under the Medium-Term Stream may take longer, usually between 3 to 8 months, especially if additional checks or assessments are required.

It's important to note that processing times can fluctuate due to various reasons, such as the complexity of the case, the availability of supporting documents, or changes in immigration policies. To get a more accurate estimate of current processing times, you can check the Department of Home Affairs website or contact a registered migration agent for personalized advice.

How Much Does a 482 Visa Cost?

The cost of a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) includes several fees that applicants and their sponsors must consider. For most applicants, the main fees include the visa application charge, which varies depending on the stream and length of the visa. As of the latest information, the base application charge for the TSS visa starts at AUD 1,265 for the Short-Term Stream and AUD 2,645 for the Medium-Term and Labour Agreement streams.

Additional costs may apply depending on circumstances such as the inclusion of family members or the need for health examinations or police checks. Employers sponsoring applicants also incur costs, including the nomination fee, which varies depending on the size of the business and whether it is located in a regional area.

It's important for applicants and sponsors to check the current fee schedule on the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website, as fees can change periodically. Additionally, applicants should budget for other potential expenses related to relocation, health insurance, and other requirements associated with living and working in Australia on a temporary basis.

How Do I Get a Skill Assessment for a 482 Visa?

To obtain a skill assessment for a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), you generally need to follow these steps:

Check Skill Assessment Requirements: Determine if your occupation requires a skill assessment. This typically applies to occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and sometimes on the Regional Occupation List (ROL).

Select a Recognized Assessing Authority: Identify the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. Each assessing authority specializes in specific occupations and has its own set of requirements and processes.

Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, which may include your qualifications, employment references, English language proficiency results, and any other relevant certificates or licenses.

Submit Application: Complete the skill assessment application form provided by the assessing authority. Ensure all required documents and fees are included.

Wait for Assessment: The assessing authority will review your application and documents to determine if your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.

Receive Assessment Outcome: Once assessed, you will receive a formal assessment outcome from the assessing authority. This outcome will confirm whether your skills and qualifications are suitable for the nominated occupation.

Include Assessment in Visa Application: If your skill assessment is successful, include the assessment outcome and any associated reference or identification numbers in your TSS visa application.

It's crucial to choose the correct assessing authority and ensure you meet all their specific requirements to avoid delays in your visa application process. For accurate and detailed information specific to your occupation, visit the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a registered migration agent like us.

How Long Can I Stay With a 482 Visa?

The duration of stay with a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) depends on several factors, primarily the stream under which the visa is granted and any specific conditions attached to the visa.

Short-Term Stream: If you are sponsored under the Short-Term Stream, the visa can be granted for a period of up to two years. This stream is typically used for occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Extensions may be possible under certain circumstances, but overall stay is generally limited to two years.

Medium-Term Stream: For occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and sometimes the Regional Occupation List (ROL), visas under the Medium-Term Stream can be granted for up to four years. This stream provides a longer stay option and may also offer a pathway to permanent residency after a specified period.

Labour Agreement Stream: Applicants sponsored under a labour agreement may have varying durations depending on the terms negotiated in the agreement between the employer and the Australian government. These agreements can outline specific conditions and lengths of stay beyond the standard TSS visa durations.

In all streams, the duration of stay granted is linked to the length of the employment contract and the sponsorship period specified by the employer. Visa holders are expected to comply with the conditions of their visa, including working for the sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation. Changes in employment or employer may require notification or approval from the Department of Home Affairs to ensure visa compliance.

For those considering longer-term residency in Australia, pathways to permanent residency may be available through employer sponsorship, regional schemes, or other skilled migration programs. Understanding the specific conditions and potential pathways associated with the TSS visa is crucial for planning your stay in Australia effectively.

Can a 482 Visa Allow Me to Stay Longer?

The duration of stay with a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) is typically tied to the sponsorship period and employment terms specified by the sponsoring employer. Extensions beyond the initial visa period may be possible under certain circumstances, such as if the employer continues to sponsor you or if you transition to another visa type that allows for longer stays, such as a permanent residency visa. However, any changes to employment or visa conditions must be approved by the Department of Home Affairs, and compliance with visa conditions is essential. Exploring pathways to extend your stay, including potential avenues for permanent residency, should be done with careful consideration of Australian immigration laws and regulations.

How to Convert Visa 482 to PR (Permanent Residency)?

Transitioning from a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia typically involves several pathways depending on your specific circumstances and eligibility criteria. Here are common pathways:

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (subclass 186):

This pathway allows TSS visa holders who have worked for their employer for at least three years on a TSS visa (Medium-Term Stream) to apply for permanent residency through sponsorship by their employer.

Requirements include continued employment with the sponsoring employer, meeting skills and English language standards, and complying with all visa conditions.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (subclass 187):
Similar to ENS, RSMS allows TSS visa holders working in regional Australia to transition to

PR through employer sponsorship.

Applicants must have worked for their employer for at least three years in regional Australia and meet other eligibility criteria specified by the visa stream.

Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190):

These visas are points-tested and require applicants to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and subsequently receive an invitation to apply based on their skills, qualifications, and work experience.

Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491):

This visa requires nomination by a state or territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.

Holders of a TSS visa (Medium-Term Stream) who have worked for at least three years in regional Australia may be eligible to apply for this visa pathway to PR.

Navigating these pathways can be complex, and requirements may vary based on changes in immigration policies. It's essential to carefully review eligibility criteria, gather necessary documents, and seek advice from a registered migration agent for personalized guidance on the most suitable pathway to permanent residency in Australia.

Is It Possible for My 482 Visa to Include My Family?

Yes, you can include certain family members on your Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) application. Eligible family members include your spouse or de facto partner, and dependent children. When you apply for the visa, you have the option to include them as accompanying family members. They will have the same visa subclass and visa conditions as you, allowing them to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of your visa, provided they comply with visa conditions.

To include family members, you must declare them in your visa application and provide relevant documents, such as their passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), and evidence of their relationship to you. Additional fees may apply for each family member included in the application. It's important to note that family members must meet health and character requirements as part of the visa application process. Ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete will help streamline the application process for including family members on your TSS visa.

482 Visa Subsequent Entrant

Family members cannot be include after your visa application has been filed. Your family members may, however, apply for the visa as later entrants if the Department is processing your application; however, they will need to complete an online application and pay the applicable fees.

482 Visa Conditions

  • After your 482 visa is granted, you must adhere to these conditions to maintain your visa:
  • Commence employment within 90 days upon arrival in Australia or after receiving your visa (if applying from within the country).
  • Restrict your employment to your nominated occupation.
  • Avoid periods of unemployment exceeding 60 consecutive days.
  • Limit your employment to the sponsoring business, unless exempted from this requirement.

Can I Change Employers with a 482 Visa?

Yes, you can change employers while holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), but it requires certain procedures and approvals. If you wish to change employers, the new employer must first become an approved sponsor or already be one. Additionally, they must nominate you for a position that aligns with your approved occupation and visa conditions. You are required to inform the Department of Home Affairs about the change and seek approval through a new nomination and potentially a visa application. It's crucial to ensure all steps are followed correctly to maintain visa compliance and avoid any disruptions to your stay in Australia.

Can I Change My Occupation with a 482 Visa?

No, changing your nominated occupation while holding a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) is generally not permitted unless approved by the Department of Home Affairs. The visa is granted based on a specific nominated occupation, and any changes to this occupation require a new nomination from your employer and potentially a new visa application. If your circumstances or career path necessitate a change in occupation, it's essential to consult with your employer and possibly a registered migration agent to understand the process and ensure compliance with visa conditions and Australian immigration laws. Promptly notifying and seeking approval from the Department of Home Affairs is crucial to avoid any breaches of visa conditions.

Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)

The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) is a minimum salary requirement that employers must meet when sponsoring skilled workers on certain visas, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482). As of the latest guidelines, the TSMIT ensures that overseas workers are paid at least a specified threshold to protect local employment conditions and standards. Currently set at AUD 53,900 per annum (in 2024), this threshold ensures that sponsored workers receive fair compensation comparable to Australian workers in similar roles. Employers must offer salaries that meet or exceed the TSMIT to ensure compliance with visa requirements and support the Australian government's goal of maintaining equitable labor standards and protections. 

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