Unraveling the Differences Between 400 Visa and 482 Visa – What You Need to Know!
The employer sponsored visas are a key component of any company’s global mobility plan and it is important for Australian employers to understand the key differences between two major work visa Australia subclassess, the Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) 400 visa and the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa.
- A subclass 400 visa allows for entry for a non-ongoing stay period of a maximum of 6 months.
- A subclass 482 visa would allow entry to Australia for an ongoing position of either two years or four years.
400 Visa and 482 Visa Overview
400 Visa (Highly Specialised Work)
The Subclass 400 visa temporary work (short stay specialist) visa, for short term non-ongoing projects allows an applicant to enter Australia for a period of stay up to 6 months. It is possible to enter on multiple short terms stays within a 12-month period provided the cumulative period does not exceed 6 months.
An application can be made under the Highly Specialised Work Stream, where it can be demonstrated that the applicant holds highly specialised skills, knowledge or experience that can help an Australian business and cannot be sourced from the local labour market.
For example, the applicant holds specific knowledge of machines/equipment being installed in Australia that cannot be sourced from the local labour or the knowledge/skill cannot be acquired in a short period of time.
The nominated occupation should fit within the ANZSCO job dictionary Skill levels 1-3.
Where the Highly Specialised stream does not apply, an application can be made under Australia’s interest stream where it is demonstrated the applicant holds skills, knowledge or expertise required in Australia due to compelling circumstances of significant national interest.
Examples of an individual’s compelling circumstances include:
- Assisting Australia’s response to a disaster or emergency.
- Australia’s relationship with a foreign government, trade or business opportunities would be adversely impacted.
- Providing a significant contribution to Australia’s business, economic, cultural or other development.
An example is where an emergency worker holds a specialised skill, knowledge or expertise required to respond to a declared Australian disaster or emergency.
482 Visa Temporary Skill Shortage
The Subclass 482 visa allows approved sponsors to fill vacant positions with overseas skilled workers where local labor cannot be sourced to fill positions.
The 482 visa requires the following three application approvals:
- Standard Business Sponsorship approval allows a company to nominate individuals to work for the business in Australia.
The company will be required to provide financial documents to evidence the business is lawfully operating in Australia or overseas. Further, the company needs to illustrate a commitment to employing local labour and not engage in discriminatory recruitment practices and confirm suitability to be an approved Sponsor.
- Nomination Application allows a sponsor to nominate an applicant in a position within the company.
The Skilled Occupation List classifies occupation on the Short Term Stream allowing a maximum stay of two years and Medium Term Stream allowing a stay of four years.
The applicant will need to demonstrate the required experience and skill to satisfy the ANZSCO classification for their nominated occupation.
The approved sponsor will be required to provide evidence of their financial capacity to support the nomination, demonstrate how the position fits within the company and outline the position requirements that will be sponsored.
The sponsor is required to pay a Skilling Australians Fund levy which is calculated according to the business annual turnover and the requested visa period.
- Visa Application
The visa application allows an individual to evidence their work experience and skills, English language ability and good character to hold the visa to enter Australia. Additional family members can be included in the visa application and will need to meet specific requirements for the grant of a visa.
FAQ Section
Can I apply for both the 400 visa and 482 visas simultaneously?
No, each visa category requires a separate application. Choose the one that aligns with your specific situation and goals.
What is the processing time for the 400 visa and 482 visas?
Processing times vary, but on average, the 400 Visa takes around four weeks, while the 482 Visa may take several months. Be sure to check the latest updates from the immigration authorities.
Are there age restrictions for the 400 visa and 482 visas?
there’s no specific age limit.
Can I include dependents in my visa application?
Yes, both the 400 and 482 visas allow for the inclusion of eligible dependents. Ensure you fulfill the criteria and provide necessary documentation for each dependent.
Are there any language proficiency requirements for these visas?
Language requirements apply to 482 visa.
Conclusion
As you navigate the intricate 400 Visa and 482 Visa maze, remember that knowledge is your greatest asset.
Arm yourself with the insights provided in this guide, and embark on your visa journey with confidence.
If you would like to speak with a Registered Migration Agent about your eligibility for the 482 or 400 visa or to better understand the 400 visa and 482 visa differences, please contact VISA LOUNGE AUSTRALIA to book a consultation.
The content of this article about 400 visa and 482 visa differences is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
