From 7 December 2024, skilled workers interested in working in Australia can apply for the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482). This visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and is designed to better align with Australia’s labor market needs. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering migrating to Australia as a skilled worker.
Key Changes
- New Occupation List. The introduction of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) marks a shift towards targeted skilled migration. This list highlights occupations currently in demand across Australia, ensuring that businesses can sponsor workers for roles that align closely with labor shortages.
- Updated Income Thresholds. To enhance the flexibility of employer sponsorship, the SID visa sets clear income thresholds tailored to its various streams. This change offers greater clarity and ensures that skilled roles are appropriately compensated.
- Pathways to Permanent Residency. The SID visa provides streamlined pathways for skilled workers to transition into permanent residency, improving career stability for migrants and offering greater mobility within Australia’s workforce.
Three Streams of the SID Visa
To meet the diverse needs of employers and workers, the SID visa offers three distinct streams:
- Specialist Skills Stream. This stream is designed for high-salary roles offering $135,000 or more annually. It is open to any occupation listed under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), excluding lower-skilled categories in Major Groups 3, 7, and 8.
- Core Skills Stream. Targeting roles listed on the CSOL, this stream requires a minimum salary of $73,150 or whatever the current market pays, whichever is higher. It’s ideal for filling essential roles that address Australia’s critical skill shortages.
- Labour Agreement Stream. This stream remains consistent with the former TSS visa framework, enabling businesses to negotiate specific agreements with the Australian government to fill niche or unique skill gaps.
Transitional Arrangements
If you’ve submitted a nomination or visa application under the TSS visa before 7 December 2024, rest assured that those applications will still be processed under the previous framework. For nominations lodged without a corresponding visa application, these can now be linked to the SID visa, offering a smooth transition for employers and applicants.
Steps to Take Next
- Check Your Occupation on the CSOL. Look at the Core Skills Occupation List to see if your profession is in demand. If your occupation is listed, you’re one step closer to living and working in Australia.
- Evaluate Your Salary Potential. Make sure your expected salary meets the threshold for the stream you’re applying under. This ensures you’re eligible and can take advantage of the new visa benefits.
- Get Professional Guidance. Navigating Australia’s migration system can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our experienced migration consultants are here to guide you through every step of the process and help you achieve your dream of living in Australia.
Insights from an Expert
According to Margie Dizon, Director and Registered Migration Agent for Migration Corporation of Australia Pty Ltd, the SID visa is a game-changer for Australia’s migration system.
“By focusing on targeted occupations, improving salary thresholds, and offering pathways to permanent residency, this visa aims to address labor shortages while providing skilled workers with a fantastic opportunity to contribute to Australia’s economy while enjoying the benefits of living in a dynamic and multicultural country.”
“Whether you’re aiming for career growth, a better quality of life, or a long-term future in Australia, this visa opens the door to exciting possibilities,” Margie said.
If you have questions about how the SID visa can benefit your business or your personal migration goals, our team of experienced migration agents is here to help. Book a consultation with us today for tailored advice and support on navigating this new visa framework.