A Complete Guide to 482 Visa Australia (2025)

Australia is a prime destination for skilled professionals who want to avail themselves of improved job opportunities in a strong job market. The subclass 482 visa is among the most popular work visa programs for experienced professionals.

If you are also interested in applying for a 482 visa program, this comprehensive guide will explain its eligibility conditions, application procedure, and relevant information. However, before that, we would like to give you a brief overview of this visa program.

What is the 482 visa program? 

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) helps Australian companies address labour shortages by hiring foreign skilled workers. It enables skilled workers to live and work in Australia with their employers' sponsorship.

The visa substituted the 457 Visa in March 2018 and has since become among Australia's most sought-after employer-sponsored work visas.

However, on December 7, 2024, the skills-in-demand visa program replaced the previous visa program. This change was associated with the introduction of a new skills occupation list to address Australia's skill shortage. 

Types of Australia visa 482 

The 482 Visa has three streams, depending on the job type and employer needs:

1. Short-Term Stream

For jobs listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Permits stay up to 2 years (or 4 years for Hong Kong passport holders). Renewable once but not a direct migration stream to permanent residence.

2. Medium-Term Stream

Occupations listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) permit a stay of up to four years, with the option for multiple renewals. There is a pathway to permanent residence through employer-sponsored visas.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

For employees sponsored under a labour agreement between the Australian government and an employer. Validity and conditions depend on the agreement. Can provide pathways to permanent residence, depending on the agreement terms.

Eligibility criteria for the 482 visa subclass 

The 482 visa subclass has been replaced with the skills-in-demand visa program. But the eligibility criteria stay the same, and to be eligible for the new skills in demand visa program, the following is required:

1. Employer Sponsorship

You must have an Australian sponsor who cannot obtain an Australian candidate for the job.

2. Occupation on the Skilled List

Your occupation should be on the STSOL or MLTSSL.

3. Work Experience

At least 2 years of work experience in the nominated occupation is needed.

4. English Language Requirement

For the Short-Term Stream:

• IELTS: At least 5.0 overall (no band lower than 4.5).
• PTE Academic: At least 36 overall (no lower score than 30).
• For Medium-Term Stream:
• IELTS: At least 5.0 overall (no lower band than 5.0).
• PTE Academic: At least 36 overall (no lower score than 36).

5. Salary Threshold

You need to earn a salary of at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) of AUD 70,000 per year (excluding super).

6. Health and Character Checks

They need to do health tests and obtain police clearance certificates.

Steps to apply for this visa program? 

In order to successfully nominate for the skills in-demand visa program, applicants are required to complete the three steps of the nomination process:

• Step 1: Employer Sponsorship Application

Your employer must become an approved Standard Business Sponsor (SBS).

• Step 2: Nomination of the Employee

Your employer nominates you for a position. They must provide evidence that an Australian employee is not able to fill the role.

• Step 3: Visa Application by the Employee

You lodge your 482 Visa application via ImmiAccount with accompanying documents, including:

• Qualifications and work experience evidence
• Job details and employment contract
• English test results (if necessary)
• Health and character documents

Pathways to Permanent Residency

If you're on a 482 Visa, you could be eligible for permanent residency on the following:

• Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 Visa: Eligible for Medium-Term Stream holders after 2 years of employment with the sponsoring employer.
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Subclass 494 Visa: Created for skilled employees in regional Australia.
• General Skilled Migration (Subclass 189 or 190): You can apply for PR separately if you qualify for the points test and are nominated by a state.

Can you bring your Family?

Yes! You may bring dependent family members with your application. Dependent family members include:

• Spouse or de facto partner
• Children under the age of 18 years (or above 18 if dependent on you financially)
• Family members will have the right to work and study thoroughly in Australia.

Conclusion 

The Subclass 482 Visa has been essential for skilled workers who wish to work in Australia. It provides a chance for career development and possible permanent residency. Although the Skills in Demand Visa has since replaced it, the fundamental eligibility requirements and application process remain the same. 

This business-sponsored visa still helps fill Australia's labour gaps by enabling companies to employ skilled overseas workers when local expertise is unavailable.

For individuals aiming to pursue a career in Australia, the Skills in Demand Visa offers a set framework for work, residency, and even permanent residence. If you're qualified and have a sponsoring employer lined up, then this visa can be your ticket to a bright future in Australia.

For complete details about the Subclass 482 visa program, contact Province Immigration via +91 98961 96762 or info@provinceimmigration.com