Q: When does the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa Subclass 482 come into effect?
A: The Skills in Demand Visa became effective on December 7, 2024. Please note that the new provisions are not retrospective.
Q: What happens if I have already applied for the Subclass 482 Visa under the TSS scheme?
A: Applications submitted under the previous TSS Visa framework will be assessed according to the criteria of the earlier legislation. However, if the nomination was lodged before December 7, 2024, but the visa application was submitted after that date, the nomination can be linked to the new SID Visa and assessed under the updated criteria.
Q: Can I relocate to a new employer while holding the Subclass 482 Visa?
A: Yes, you may transfer to a different employer. However, your role must align with the new Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL) or ANZSCO list and satisfy the eligibility requirements of the relevant SID Visa stream.
Q: What is the applicable occupation list for the SID Visa?
A: The relevant occupation list is the CSOL. All positions listed on the CSOL are eligible for sponsorship under the new SID Visa.
Q: Can I still be sponsored if my occupation is not on the CSOL?
A: Yes, the SID Visa includes two streams: the Core Skills Stream and the Specialist Skilled Stream. The Specialist Skilled Stream allows sponsorship for roles included in the ANZSCO list (excluding Groups 3, 7, and 8, such as drivers, tradespeople, and laborers). This stream requires a higher minimum salary threshold of $135,000 (plus superannuation). There is a third Stream (Labour Agreement) for special circumstances and when the Employer has an agreement with special conditions.
Q: What is the salary threshold for the Core Skills Stream?
A: The Core Skills Stream requires a minimum salary of $73,150 (plus superannuation). The threshold is indexed and updated annually on July 1.
Q: How much work experience is required to qualify for the SID Visa?
A: Applicants must demonstrate at least 1 year of full-time work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related field within the last 5 years. Part-time and casual work are also considered, and the work experience does not need to be continuous.
Q: Does one year of experience in the position make me eligible for sponsorship under the SID Visa?
A: Not necessarily. You must also meet the ANZSCO requirements for the occupation, which may include specific qualifications or a minimum work experience as an alternative. For the visa requirements, you must provide evidence of working in the position for at least 1 year (not continuously) within the last 5 years prior to lodging the visa application.
Q: Are there any age or English language requirements for the SID Visa?
A: There is no age limit for the SID Visa. Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum overall IELTS score of 5 and at least 5 in each component (or equivalent scores in other approved English tests).
Q: Does the SID Visa provide a pathway to permanent residency under Subclass 186 (Temporary Residence Transition Stream)?
A: Yes, the SID Visa offers a pathway to permanent residency via the Subclass 186 Visa. Applicants must meet all requirements for Subclass 186, including the age limit of 45 (unless exempted).
Q: Is it necessary to show continuous employment with the same employer to meet permanent residency requirements?
A: No, it is no longer necessary to demonstrate continuous employment with the same employer. Periods of work with different employers in the same occupation can be combined to satisfy the eligibility criteria for Subclass 186 (Temporary Residence Transition Stream).
