Synopsis: Australia’s new Skills in Demand (SID) visa, subclass 482, replaces the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa to tackle labour gaps. It features three streams—Core, Specialist, and Labour Agreement—and references the new Core Skills Occupation List. Eligible SID visa holders can transition to permanent residency, aligning skilled migration with economic needs.
On 7 December 2024, Australia introduced the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482), replacing the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa. This new visa aims to address labour shortages by enabling employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers when suitably skilled Australian workers are unavailable.
Topics Discussed:
- What Is the Skills in Demand Visa?
- Streams of the SID Visa
- The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
- Pathway to Permanent Residency
What Is the Skills in Demand Visa?
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa is a temporary work visa allowing holders to live and work in Australia for up to four years (five years for Hong Kong passport holders). Importantly, the SID visa offers a pathway to permanent residency for eligible individuals.
Key requirements include:
- Nomination by an approved sponsor for a skilled position.
- Possession of the relevant skills to perform the job.
- Meeting the English language requirements applicable to the role.
Applications for the previous TSS visa lodged before 7 December 2024 will be processed under the former rules.
Streams of the SID Visa
The SID visa features three streams tailored to meet specific workforce needs:
- Core Skills Stream: Targets roles identified in the newly launched Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Specialist Skills Stream: Focuses on highly specialized positions that drive innovation and economic growth.
- Labour Agreement Stream: Facilitates skilled migration through customized agreements between employers and the government.
The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
On 3 December 2024, the government released the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), consolidating outdated occupation lists into a streamlined resource of 456 occupations. Informed by labour market analysis and consultations by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), the CSOL applies to both the SID visa’s Core Skills stream and the permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).
This move simplifies Australia’s skilled visa system, ensuring it meets modern labour demands and remains responsive to the evolving economy.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
One of the most attractive features of the SID visa is its clear pathway to permanent residency. Eligible visa holders can transition to PR through programs like the Employer Nomination Scheme, creating long-term opportunities for migrants and addressing Australia’s workforce needs.
Conclusion:
The launch of the Skills in Demand visa and the introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List mark significant advancements in Australia’s skilled migration program. By addressing labour shortages and streamlining processes, these measures promise a brighter future for both employers and skilled migrants. For more details on eligibility and application procedures, explore the Australian government’s official resources.
