The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa is set to undergo significant changes in November 2024. These updates are part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy, aimed at improving the skilled migration process. The Skills in Demand visa will replace the 482 visa, introducing a more streamlined, tiered approach based on occupation and salary. These changes may impact both employers and visa applicants, so it’s important to be well-prepared.
Key Changes to the 482 Visa:
- One-Year Work Experience Requirement
The work experience requirement for applicants will be reduced from two years to one year of full-time work in your occupation or a related field. This is a significant change that makes it easier for applicants to meet the eligibility criteria. For those with shorter professional histories, this presents a valuable opportunity to apply now under the existing criteria. - Casual and Part-Time Work Now Counts
The government has broadened the definition of acceptable work experience. Casual and part-time employment will now be counted towards the work experience requirement. This gives applicants with more flexible employment arrangements greater flexibility to qualify for the 482 visa. - Longer Gaps Between Employment
The new visa will provide applicants with extended time (up to 365 days) to secure a new sponsor, apply for another visa, or arrange their departure from Australia if they face employment gaps. This is a significant shift from previous policies, which required applicants to find a new sponsor more quickly. - No Time Limit on Work Experience
Previously, applicants needed to demonstrate that their work experience had occurred within the last five years. Under the new regulations, older work experience can now be included in your application, meaning applicants can submit a more comprehensive work history, even if it was gained many years ago. - Introduction of the Skills in Demand Visa
The Skills in Demand visa will replace the 482 visa and introduce a three-tier system, where the requirements for visa approval will vary depending on the occupation and salary of the applicant. This visa is designed to address Australia’s workforce needs, offering a four-year temporary skilled worker pathway. - More Flexibility for Employers
For employers, the transition to the new system will allow existing Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) approvals to continue being used for nominating workers under the new visa program. This should help businesses transition more smoothly as they continue to sponsor workers under the new system.
What Do These Changes Mean for Visa Applicants?
For visa applicants, these changes create more opportunities and flexibility in meeting the requirements. With reduced experience and the ability to count part-time and casual work, more workers will be eligible for the visa. The changes also mean that those with older work experience or employment gaps may still be eligible, making the new process more accessible to a broader pool of skilled workers.
If you are thinking of applying for the 482 visa before November 2024, now is the time to act! Applications lodged before the changes will still be assessed according to the current criteria, giving you an opportunity to secure your visa under the existing system.
How Can Employers Benefit?
Employers who want to sponsor skilled workers should act quickly to ensure that their nomination applications are lodged before mid-November. Submitting applications before the new system takes effect ensures that they will be assessed based on the existing rules, which may be more beneficial for both the business and the applicant.
Additionally, employers should ensure they meet the Labour Market Testing requirements before mid-November, as these regulations could become stricter with the introduction of the new visa system. It’s essential to start advertising roles as soon as possible to comply with these obligations.
For businesses sponsoring workers in high-risk occupations (e.g., Café or Restaurant Managers), it’s especially important to submit applications now to ensure workers can meet the full-time work experience requirement and remain eligible for permanent residency through the Temporary Residence Transition stream.
What’s Next?
With these changes on the horizon, it’s essential to stay informed and be proactive. The introduction of the Skills in Demand visa marks a new era in Australia’s skilled migration landscape, offering both challenges and opportunities.
How NB Migration Law Can Help You
The changes to the 482 visa system can be complex, and timing is crucial. NB Migration Law is here to guide you through this process. Whether you’re an applicant or an employer, our team of expert migration lawyers can help you navigate these changes, lodge your application before the deadline, and ensure you comply with all necessary requirements.
Book a free consultation with us today to discuss your options and learn how we can assist you in securing your visa before the new system is introduced. We’ll help you understand the new visa pathway, the steps you need to take, and how to position yourself or your business for success under the upcoming changes.
Act now and get ahead of the changes!