Skills in Demand Visa

Australia’s New Skills in Demand Visa: Replacing the TSS 482

Australia introduced the Skills in Demand (SID) visa in late 2024, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa. This new system aims to better align immigration with Australia’s evolving labor market needs.

The SID visa features three pathways:

• Specialist Skills Pathway:
  • For highly skilled workers earning over $135,000 per year.
  • No occupation list, allowing for greater flexibility.
  • May offer faster processing times.
• Core Skills Pathway:
  • For skilled workers earning between $73,150 and $135,000 per year.
  • Requires occupations to be listed on the Skills in Demand List.
  • The minimum salary threshold is indexed annually.
• Essential Skills Pathway:
  • For workers earning under $73,150 per year in essential occupations.
  • May involve union oversight and be capped in numbers.

Key features of the SID visa:

• Visa Duration: Up to 4 years.
• Employer Flexibility: Easier for visa holders to change employers.
• Pathways to Permanent Residency: The SID visa can lead to permanent residency, depending on factors like occupation, work experience, and English language proficiency.
• Stronger Employer Obligations: Employers have greater responsibilities to support their sponsored workers.

Benefits of the Skills in Demand Visa:

• Structured pathways: Offers clear and accessible routes for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia.
• Flexibility: Allows for greater employer flexibility and potential pathways to permanent residency.
• Focus on skills: Targets skills shortages and contributes to Australia’s economic growth.

Book a Visa Consultation

For the most current and accurate information, please consult a registered migration agent.