Navigating the world of Australian work visas? The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa—subclass 482 is a top choice for job-seeking skilled professionals. It allows overseas workers to live and work in Australia under employer sponsorship, with defined pathways to permanent residency.
What Is the 482 Visa (SID Visa)?
The 482 visa, often called the SID Visa, enables approved Australian businesses to hire skilled foreign workers when no qualified Australian candidate is available. It typically grants employment rights for up to two or four years, depending on your stream. It also features potential PR routes via subclass 186 ENS, especially for medium-term stream applicants.
This visa replaced the former subclass 457 visa in 2018. As of December 7, 2024, it has itself been superseded by the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa. However, applications lodged before this change are still processed under the 482 rules.
482 Visa Streams: Short-Term, Medium-Term & Labour Agreement
1. Short‑Term Stream
- For occupations listed on the Short‑Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
- Initially valid for up to 2 years, renewable once onshore (max 4 years under certain trade obligations)
- Includes access to PR via ENS for some STSOL roles as of the November 2023 reforms
2. Medium‑Term Stream
- Covers occupations on the Medium & Long‑Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Regional Occupations List (ROL)
- Valid for up to 4 years, with unlimited renewals
- Offers a faster PR route after 3 years via subclass 186 TRT stream
3. Labour Agreement Stream
- For employers with special agreements with the Department of Home Affairs
- Can be more flexible in occupation and salary requirements
- Offers stay of up to 4 years and may include PR pathways
Eligibility Requirements for the 482 Visa
Employer Must:
- Be approved as a sponsor – either Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) or Accredited sponsor
- Perform Labour Market Testing (LMT): advertise the job for at least 4 weeks in national media to show that no suitable local candidate exists
- Pay the SAF (Skilling Australians Fund) levy:
- AUD 1,200/year for businesses with annual turnover < AUD 10 m
- AUD 1,800/year if above
- Commit to paying at or above the Australian Market Salary Rate, meeting at least the TSMIT threshold (AUD 73,150 p.a. from July 2023 plus super)
Employee Must:
- Have an occupation on STSOL / MLTSSL / ROL, matching ANZSCO criteria
- Hold relevant qualifications and skills, often validated via a skills assessment
- Meet the 482 visa English requirements (e.g. IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) as set out by the Department of Home Affairs
- Possess at least two years’ work experience in the nominated occupation or related field (reduced to one year since November 2024 in some cases under earlier rules)
- Satisfy health and character requirements
482 Visa Application Process & Processing Time
- Employer applies for Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) – valid for 5 years if approved
- Employer lodges Nomination – specifying the job details, labour market testing evidence, salary & position genuineness
- Employee lodges a 482 visa application, including documents such as skills assessment, IELTS, police clearances, and medical check
Processing times can vary from a few days to up to 6 months, depending on stream and completeness.
Benefits, Limitations & PR Pathways of the 482 Visa
Benefits:
- A legal way to live and work full‑time in Australia in your nominated role
- Bring family members (spouse, dependents) with full rights to work/study
- PR Pathways:
- Medium‑term stream holders can apply for PR via subclass 186 after 3 years
- Short‑term stream STSOL holders now have access to PR options after 3 years due to ENS reforms from Nov 2023 onward
Limitations:
- You are tied to the sponsoring employer—any job or occupation change requires a new nomination & visa
- Once you leave the sponsor, you may have a limited time (180 days once or up to 365 days cumulatively) to remain in Australia while transitioning to a new sponsor, as per visa bridging rules
- You must work in your nominated occupation, or get a new nomination if you change roles (Condition 8607)
Summary Table
| Step | Employer/Sponsor | Employee |
| Step 1 | Lodge a visa application with Home Affairs | Become an approved Sponsor (SBS/ABS) |
| Step 2 | Lodge Nomination (with LMT, salary, SAF levy) | Submit documents, skills assessment, IELTS |
| Step 3 | Wait for approval | Submit documents, skills assessment, and IELTS |
| Step 4 | Ensure compliance & reporting | Once granted, work for the sponsor in the nominated role |
Tips to Get Started with the 482 Visa in Australia
- Check the Medium/Long-Term (MLTSSL) or Short-Term (STSOL) occupational lists to see where your job fits
- Reach out to recruitment agencies or migration specialists to connect with eligible sponsors
- Ensure you have documentation ready—qualifications, work experience proof, English scores, health & police checks
- Ensure your prospective employer understands their obligations, including SBS approval, LMT, salary, and other relevant details.
Conclusion: Is the 482 Visa Right for You?
The 482 visa in Australia, although replaced by the SID visa in December 2024, remains a valid route for existing applications lodged before the transition. It provides a clear path for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia on employer sponsorship—with structured steps and strict compliance obligations. Whether you’re applying under the short‑term, medium‑term, or labour‑agreement streams, proper preparation is key. Meet the eligibility criteria, collaborate closely with your employer, and stay informed on visa reforms.
To ensure a smooth application process, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, required documents, and timelines. For the most up-to-date information, you can always refer to the official Home Affairs 482 Visa page
If you’re exploring your options, our team at Bombay Migrations can guide you through every step — whether it’s a temporary work visa, permanent residency, or other migration pathways.