Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, also known as the Subclass 482 visa, has played a critical role in attracting skilled workers. However, as of December 7, 2024, the Australian government has replaced the 482 visa with the Skills in Demand Visa, significantly altering the skilled migration process. While these changes aim to streamline recruitment for employers and create more opportunities for workers, they also present new challenges for migrants hoping to build a future in Australia.
What is the Skills in Demand Visa?
The Skills in Demand Visa is designed to address Australia’s labor shortages through three pathways:
- Specialist Skills Pathway, requiring a salary of at least AUD 135,000 per year (excluding trades and labor-intensive jobs).
- Core Skills Pathway, for occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List, with a minimum salary of AUD 73,150 per year.
- Labour Agreement Pathway, for workers employed under industry-specific labor agreements.
One major advantage of the new visa system is the reduction in work experience requirements, from two years to one, making it easier for recent graduates and early-career professionals to qualify.
Major Challenges for Skilled Migrants
Despite some improvements, skilled migrants face several obstacles under the new visa system.
- A key concern is occupational exclusions. The updated Core Skills Occupation List has left out critical construction jobs, such as crane, bulldozer, and excavator operators, despite Australia’s ongoing housing and infrastructure needs. This could lead to labor shortages and limit migration opportunities for skilled tradespeople.
- Another challenge is the strict control over international student numbers. The government has introduced a cap of 270,000 new international student enrollments for 2025 to address concerns over housing affordability and migration levels. This restriction may limit the number of students who transition into skilled migration pathways.
- The crackdown on non-compliant educational institutions is another hurdle. More than 150 vocational training providers have been shut down due to concerns over fraudulent enrollments. This has left thousands of students uncertain about their future and eligibility for skilled migration.
Changes to Permanent Residency Pathway
A positive development under the Skills in Demand Visa is the shortened pathway to permanent residency. Previously, skilled migrants on the 482 visa needed to work for three years before applying for permanent residency. Under the new visa, this has been reduced to two years, making it easier and faster for workers to secure long-term stability in Australia.
Additionally, visa holders now have up to 180 days to find new employment after losing a job, up from the previous 60-day limit. This provides greater flexibility and job security, helping skilled workers navigate employment challenges.
How Skilled Migrants Can Adapt
To succeed under the new visa system, skilled migrants must remain informed about changing occupation lists and salary requirements. Seeking professional migration advice can help applicants understand their eligibility and navigate complex visa conditions.
Workers should also focus on aligning their skills with in-demand occupations in Australia. Industries such as healthcare, technology, and engineering continue to have strong demand for skilled professionals.
Conclusion
The transition from the 482 visa to the Skills in Demand Visa marks a major shift in Australia’s skilled migration policies. While the new system offers advantages such as reduced work experience requirements and a faster pathway to permanent residency, it also introduces significant challenges.
Occupational exclusions, limits on student enrollments, and increased compliance measures make it more difficult for some migrants to qualify. Skilled workers hoping to move to Australia must carefully plan their migration strategies to ensure they meet the new requirements.