The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa Subclass 482 allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers to fill positions they cannot source locally. This visa is designed to address skill shortages across various industries and enables overseas professionals to live and work in Australia for an approved sponsor under specific conditions.
Subclass 482 is administered by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and plays a vital role in supporting Australia’s workforce by attracting international talent in occupations critical to economic growth.
Official information about the Subclass 482 visa can be found at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-skill-shortage-482
Key Streams Under Subclass 482
The visa includes three primary streams, each catering to different employment needs.
Short-Term Stream
This stream applies to occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and allows employment in Australia for up to two years, with limited extension options.
Medium-Term Stream
This stream covers occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and allows stays of up to four years with a pathway to permanent residency for eligible applicants.
Labour Agreement Stream
This option is for employers who have entered into a formal labour agreement with the Australian Government to sponsor overseas workers in specialized scenarios not covered by standard occupation lists.
Details of these streams are available through the Department of Home Affairs at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
Who Can Apply for Subclass 482
This visa is appropriate for skilled workers who:
- Have a valid job offer from an approved Australian employer
- Possess qualifications and experience relevant to the nominated role
- Meet English language proficiency requirements
- Satisfy health and character standards
- Intend to work only for the sponsoring employer
It is equally essential that the sponsoring employer meets strict compliance criteria.
The Three-Step Application Process
Subclass 482 involves three interconnected stages:
1. Sponsorship Application
The Australian employer must become an approved sponsor by demonstrating that their business is lawfully operating and capable of meeting sponsorship obligations.
Employer sponsorship information is available at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/sponsorship/sponsoring-a-worker
2. Nomination Application
The employer nominates a specific position and proves that it is genuine and necessary due to local skill shortages. This includes meeting market salary requirements and labor market testing obligations.
3. Visa Application
Once sponsorship and nomination are approved, the skilled worker submits their Subclass 482 visa application.
The visa application form is submitted via ImmiAccount at
https://online.immi.gov.au
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for the Subclass 482 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Work experience relevant to the nominated occupation (usually at least 2 years)
- Skills assessment (if required by the occupation)
- English language proficiency through approved tests such as IELTS or PTE
- Valid passport
- Health examination clearance
- Police clearance certificates
- Proof of professional qualifications
Applicants may also be required to meet licensing or registration standards for certain professions.
English Language Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency unless exempt. Accepted tests and score levels are outlined at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/english-language-requirements
Required Documents for Subclass 482 Application
A complete application generally includes:
- Passport bio-data page
- Employment offer letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Skills assessment (if required)
- Educational certificates
- English test results
- Health insurance details
- Police clearance certificates
- Work experience letters from previous employers
- Updated resume detailing job history
Supporting documents must be clear and verifiable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Subclass 482
Step 1: Secure an Employment Offer
You must obtain a formal job offer from an Australian employer willing to sponsor you.
Step 2: Employer Submits Sponsorship and Nomination
The employer files sponsorship and nomination applications through the official Home Affairs portal.
Step 3: Lodge Visa Application
The applicant submits their visa application through ImmiAccount. This includes uploading documents and paying the required fee.
Step 4: Health and Biometrics
Applicants undergo a medical examination and may be required to provide biometric information.
Step 5: Await Decision
Processing times vary depending on the stream, applicant country, and occupation.
Estimated processing timelines are available at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times
Financial Obligations
While applicants pay visa fees, employers are responsible for paying the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy, which supports workforce training programs.
Information on fees and levies can be found at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-pricing-estimator
Work Rights and Conditions
Subclass 482 visa holders may:
- Work only for the sponsoring employer
- Bring eligible family members
- Travel in and out of Australia freely
- Apply for permanent residency if eligible under specific pathways
Changing employers requires a new nomination.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Certain Subclass 482 holders may become eligible for permanent residency under the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
Further details are available at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
- Employer non-compliance
- Invalid job nomination
- Inadequate English proficiency
- Insufficient work experience
- Incomplete documentation
- Failure to meet health or character requirements
- Non-genuine employment relationship
Tips for a Successful Subclass 482 Application
- Ensure job role aligns with occupation list
- Provide accurate and complete documents
- Confirm employer compliance status
- Maintain clear evidence of experience
- Prepare strong skills assessment results
- Meet all language requirements
- Submit genuine and verifiable information
Including Family Members
You can include dependents such as your spouse and children under your visa application. They may be granted the same duration of stay and may work or study depending on conditions.
Visa Duration and Extensions
Subclass 482 visa duration depends on the stream:
- Short-term stream: Up to 2 years
- Medium-term stream: Up to 4 years
- Labour agreement stream: Based on agreement terms
Extensions require renewed sponsorship and nomination.
Compliance Obligations
Visa holders must:
- Work only for approved sponsor
- Notify authorities of any status change
- Maintain health insurance
- Comply with Australian workplace laws
Violations may result in visa cancellation.
Final Thoughts
The Australian Employer Sponsored Visa Subclass 482 offers a structured and valuable pathway for skilled professionals to access employment opportunities in Australia. By following the correct procedures, selecting compliant employers, and preparing accurate documentation, applicants improve their chances of successful approval.
Using official government portals and ensuring strict compliance with visa conditions allows skilled workers to build their careers in Australia while exploring long-term residency opportunities.
Anjola Adebanjo