Australia has taken a significant step in modernizing its skilled migration system with the introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) visa – Subclass 482. This visa replaces the previous Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, offering a streamlined process for skilled professionals and employers. If you are a skilled worker dreaming of Australia or an employer seeking critical talent, you must read this.
What is the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa?
The SID visa is a temporary skilled work visa tailored to address Australia’s critical workforce shortages. It enables skilled professionals to work in Australia for up to four years and provides a clearer pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186). The visa aligns closely with Australia’s labour market needs as analysed by Jobs and Skills Australia.
Key Features of the SID Visa
1. Three Streams Tailored to Skilled Workers
The SID visa introduces three targeted streams to meet varying workforce requirements:
- Specialist Skills Stream
- Designed for highly skilled migrants with a job offer of AUD $135,000 or more annually.
- Applies to a broad range of occupations (excluding machinery operators, drivers, and laborers). No occupation lists apply here.
- Core Skills Stream
- For professionals working in occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Requires a minimum salary of AUD $73,150.
- Occupations include healthcare, construction, cyber security, agriculture, and more.
- Streamlined process ensures access to workers in critical shortage areas.
- Labour Agreement Stream
- For occupations and roles negotiated between employers and the government under specific agreements.
2. Longer visas, regardless of occupation
No more 2 year visas only, now under the SID all occupations can be nominated for 1 year to 4 years.
3. Reduced Work Experience Requirement
The new SID visa requires only one year of relevant work experience in the last five years, compared to the two years required under the TSS visa. This change opens doors for emerging talent and skilled migrants looking to make Australia their home.
It’s important to note that the visa applicant still needs to show evidence that they have the minimum skills to perform the role being offered in association with the visa application, which is most cases mean showing evidence of having a minimum qualification or work to replace it, which continues to be 3 or 5 years depending on the case
3. Enhanced Worker Mobility
Visa holders now enjoy increased flexibility:
- You can change employers without needing to reapply for a new visa.
- You are allowed up to 180 days per instance and a total of 365 days during your visa period to secure a new sponsor or apply for a different visa.
This reform provides peace of mind for workers while meeting employers’ needs for workforce stability.
4. A Clearer Pathway to Permanent Residency
Every year spent working under the SID visa counts towards permanent residency requirements. This makes the SID visa one of the most practical pathways for migrants seeking stability and career growth in Australia.
Benefits of the SID Visa
For Migrants:
- Career Growth: Access to roles in Australia’s leading industries.
- Clear Path to PR: Work under the SID visa and qualify for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme.
- Flexibility: Change employers without jeopardizing your visa status.
- Live in Australia: Enjoy Australia’s high quality of life, multicultural society, and vibrant communities.
For Employers:
- Access to Skilled Talent: The streamlined process allows employers to sponsor talent in critical areas, ensuring business growth.
- Retain Skilled Workers: The SID visa’s PR pathway promotes long-term employment.
- Reduced Red Tape: Simplified requirements under the CSOL improve the sponsorship process.
SID Visa vs. TSS Visa: Key Changes
| Feature | TSS Visa | SID Visa |
| Work Experience | 2 years | 1 year |
| Occupation Lists | Multiple lists | Single CSOL under the Core Skills Stream |
| Pathway to PR | Medium-term only | All streams lead to PR |
| Flexibility to Change Jobs | Limited | 365-day total mobility |
Direct Entry to the Permanent Employer Nomination Visa Subclass 186
In an unexpected decision, the government also applied the CSOL to the 186 visa under the Direct Entry Stream. This means that many international workers may now be able to skip the temporary sponsorship visa SID 482 altogether and apply for a permanent visa.
Requirements are harder to meet:
- The worker needs to have a positive Skills Assessment in the nominated occupation
- Minimum 3 years of full time relevant work experience or equivalent pro-rata
- Competent English
Conclusion: Is the SID Visa Right for You?
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa marks a new chapter in Australia’s skilled migration program. Whether you are a skilled professional looking to build your career in Australia or an employer struggling with labor shortages, the SID visa offers unmatched benefits and flexibility.
To determine your eligibility or explore sponsorship options, contact Bravo Migration today. Our team of migration experts specializes in navigating Australia’s immigration pathways, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
Don’t wait! Start your Australian dream today with the new SID visa. Book your free Discovery Call* with one of our experienced Registered Agents at Bravo Migration and take the first step towards a brighter future.
Bravo Migration – Empowering Your Australian Journey
* Conditions apply: you must be in Australia and have a job or sponsorship offer, or be holding a 482 visa already
