The Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482) is a temporary work visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill positions they are unable to source locally.
This visa replaces the former Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and introduces new streams and criteria to better align with Australia’s labour market needs.
The SID visa has a pathway to permanent residency through the subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition stream, provided the applicant meets the criteria of that visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Skills in Demand Visa?
The Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) is structured into three distinct streams, each tailored to different occupational and salary requirements. The visa can be granted for up to four years, depending on the stream and the applicant’s circumstances.
Streams under the Subclass 482 Visa
Core Skills Stream
- For occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
- Meet the minimum salary threshold: As at 1 July 2025 it is AUD $76,515 excluding superannuation (known as the “Core Skills Income Threshold” or “CSIT”)
- Requires. at least 1 year of relevant work experience in the past 5 years
- Occupation must be on the CSOL
Specialist Skills Stream
- For highly skilled professionals in critical sectors
- Meet the minimum salary threshold: As at 1 July 2025 it is AUD $141,210 (known as the “Specialist Skills Income Threshold” or “SSIT”)
- Does not rely on a specific occupation list
- Offers fast-tracked processing
Labour Agreement Stream
- For employers with a negotiated labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs
- Meet the minimum salary threshold: As at 1 July 2025 it is AUD $76,515 excluding superannuation
- Requirements and visa length depend on the terms of the agreement
What are the Requirements for the Skills in Demand Visa?
To be eligible for the subclass 482 visa, applicants must:
- Be nominated by an approved employer
- Have an occupation on the relevant list (CSOL for Core Skills Stream)
- Meet the minimum salary threshold for the applicable stream
- Demonstrate at least 1 year of relevant full-time work experience in the past 5 years
- Meet English language requirements (unless exempt)
- Pass character and health checks
- Hold qualifications and/or experience relevant to the nominated occupation
- Provide a positive skills assessment if required
How to Apply for the Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482)
To apply for the Skills in Demand visa, you must:
- Secure a nomination from an approved Australian employer
- Ensure your occupation is listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (for Core Skills Stream)
- Prepare documentation including English test results, qualifications, work references, and character checks
- Submit your visa application through ImmiAccount after your employer lodges the nomination
- Ensure your salary meets or exceeds the relevant income threshold. As at 1 July 2025 the income threshold are:
- Core Skills Stream: AUD $76,515 excluding superannuation
- Specialist Skills Stream: AUD $141,210 excluding superannuation
- Labour Agreement Stream: AUD $76,515 excluding superannuation
- More information on salary thresholds
Pathways to Permanent Residency
All three streams under the Skills in Demand visa offer pathways to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa, provided the applicant meets the eligibility criteria including work duration, employer sponsorship, and salary thresholds.
To learn more about the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), eligibility, and application process, book your free 10-minute consultation online now with one of our immigration lawyers.
