The Subclass 482 visa, also known as the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, is a temporary employer-sponsored visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers when they cannot find a suitably qualified Australian to fill a position.
It is a central part of Australia’s skilled migration system and is designed to address genuine labour shortages in a structured and regulated way.
Purpose of the 482 Visa in Australia
The 482 visa exists to help Australian employers fill critical skill gaps in their workforce. When an employer cannot source a suitably qualified person locally, they may sponsor a skilled worker, whether based outside Australia or already in Australia on another visa, to fill the position. At the same time, the visa framework ensures that sponsorship is only used where there is a genuine need, helping protect opportunities for the local workforce while supporting business continuity.
What the 482 Visa Allows You to Do
The Subclass 482 visa allows a skilled worker to live and work in Australia for an approved employer in a nominated occupation. Most visa holders can stay for up to 4 years, while eligible Hong Kong passport holders may stay for up to 5 years.
The visa is employer-linked, meaning your work rights and conditions are tied to your sponsoring employer and the nominated position. Eligible family members may also be included in your application.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Subclass 482 visa, a skilled worker must meet the following core requirements:
- Be nominated for a skilled position by an approved Australian employer
- Have the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the nominated occupation
- Meet the relevant English language requirements
These requirements ensure that the role is appropriately matched to a skilled worker who can perform the duties effectively in the Australian workplace.
Streams Under the 482 Visa
Below are the different streams under the Subclass 482 visa.
Core Skills Stream
The Core Skills stream is the most commonly used pathway under the 482 visa. It allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for occupations where there is an ongoing shortage in Australia. To be eligible, the occupation must be listed on the Core Skills Occupation List, which identifies roles where local recruitment has not met demand.
With this visa, you can stay in Australia for up to 4 years, or up to 5 years if you hold a Hong Kong passport.
Specialist Skills Stream
The Specialist Skills stream is designed for highly experienced skilled workers in advanced or specialist occupations. To qualify, your occupation must fall within specific ANZSCO major groups (1, 2, 4, 5, or 6), and the nominated salary must meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold. This stream is used for higher-level professional roles requiring advanced expertise.
If you are a highly experienced skilled worker, you can stay for up to 4 years, or up to 5 years for eligible Hong Kong passport holders.
Labour Agreement Stream
The Labour Agreement stream applies where an employer has entered into a formal agreement with the Australian Government to sponsor skilled workers under specific conditions. These agreements are used when standard visa programs do not adequately address industry or regional labour shortages. Each agreement is individually negotiated, meaning requirements may vary depending on the employer and sector.
A skilled worker can stay for up to 4 years, depending on the terms of the labour agreement. In some cases, eligible Hong Kong passport holders may stay for up to 5 years.
Subsequent Entrant Stream
The Subsequent Entrant stream is for family members of existing Subclass 482 or Subclass 457 visa holders who wish to join the primary visa holder in Australia. It allows eligible dependants to apply separately and live in Australia during the validity of the primary visa holder’s visa.
A skilled worker (as a family member applicant) can stay for as long as the primary visa holder’s visa remains valid.
Key Conditions of the 482 Visa
The Subclass 482 visa is closely linked to the sponsoring employer and nominated role. This means a skilled worker must comply with strict conditions throughout their stay.
Key conditions include:
- You must work only in your nominated occupation.
- Your visa is tied to your approved sponsoring employer.
- Changing employers may require a new nomination.
- You must continue to meet all visa conditions to remain lawful.
Because of these conditions, employment arrangements must be managed carefully to avoid visa issues.
How SALIA Lawyers & Associates Can Assist
The 482 visa process involves detailed requirements for both employers and skilled workers, including sponsorship obligations, eligibility assessments, and compliance rules.
At SALIA Lawyers & Associates, we assist employers and skilled workers with clear, practical guidance throughout the entire process. We help assess eligibility, manage sponsorship requirements, and ensure applications are prepared correctly to improve the chances of a successful outcome.
If you are considering the Subclass 482 visa, our team can provide tailored advice based on your situation and guide you through each step.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
