Australia Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS Subclass 482): Complete Guide
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa – Subclass 482 is one of Australia’s key pathways for skilled foreign workers. Introduced to replace the old 457 visa, the TSS visa allows Australian businesses to address labor shortages by sponsoring overseas workers when no suitable local workers are available. In this guide, we’ll cover eligibility, streams, salary requirements, costs, required documents, and application steps for the 482 visa.
Overview of the TSS Subclass 482 Visa
The TSS visa is an employer-sponsored visa. This means you must have a job offer from an Australian business approved as a sponsor. The visa is temporary but can serve as a pathway to permanent residency for some workers, depending on their occupation and stream.
Streams of the TSS Visa
The TSS 482 visa is divided into three main streams:
- Short-term Stream: For occupations on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Valid for up to 2 years (renewable once).
- Medium-term Stream: For jobs on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Valid for up to 4 years with a pathway to permanent residency.
- Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored under special agreements between employers and the Australian government.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet several conditions:
- Have a job offer from an approved sponsor.
- Work in an eligible occupation listed on the STSOL or MLTSSL.
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS or equivalent).
- Have at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
- Hold health insurance and meet health requirements.
- Meet character requirements (police checks).
Salary and Employment Conditions
Employers must pay the market salary rate to ensure foreign workers are not exploited. In most cases, the salary must meet or exceed the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), currently set at AUD 53,900 per year.
Documents Required
Key documents include:
- Valid passport.
- Job offer and employment contract.
- Skills assessment (for certain occupations).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Health insurance and medical exams.
- Police clearance certificates.
Application Process
- Employer Sponsorship: Your employer applies to become an approved sponsor.
- Nomination: The employer nominates your occupation and role.
- Visa Application: You submit your personal application online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
- Biometrics & Health Exams: Complete medical exams and submit biometrics if required.
- Visa Grant: If approved, the visa is issued for up to 2 or 4 years depending on the stream.
Costs Involved
- Short-term stream: AUD 1,330.
- Medium-term stream: AUD 2,770.
- Labour agreement stream: AUD 2,770.
- Additional costs: health checks, English tests, biometrics.
Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on the stream:
- Short-term stream: 6–9 months.
- Medium-term stream: 7–11 months.
- Labour agreement: depends on case complexity.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
While the short-term stream does not lead to permanent residency, the medium-term stream can provide a pathway through the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) after 3 years of work.
Advantages of the TSS Visa
- Work legally in Australia in your nominated occupation.
- Bring family members (dependents) with you.
- Study in Australia (without government funding).
- Pathway to permanent residency for medium-term stream workers.
Official Resources
Conclusion
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482 is a crucial migration program that helps Australian employers fill labor shortages while offering skilled workers a chance to work and live in Australia. For many, this visa can also open a pathway to permanent residency, especially through the medium-term stream.