The introduction of the Skills In Demand 482 Visa, aka “SID” is one of the major changes announced in the Migration Strategy, same as the release of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Below we cover everything you need to know, including the latest Australian immigration updates, upcoming changes, and must know details on the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, which came into effect on 7 December 2024.
So, what changed on 7 December 2024?
Australia retired the old Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa and replaced it with the Skills in Demand (SID) 482 visa. The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) now sets the jobs that qualify, replacing the TSS visa occupation lists, and the work experience rule dropped from two years to one.
Predicted changes in skills demand are influenced by various factors, including technological advancements, demographic shifts, and global economic conditions. We can expect a continued and greater emphasis on digital skills as industries increasingly adopt automation and artificial intelligence.
Healthcare professionals, hospitality and construction workers will remain in high demand, driven by an aging population and evolving health care needs and housing shortage. Applicants with skills aligned with these trends will be well positioned to capitalise on opportunities presented by the Skills in Demand 482 Visa program.
The Transition from TSS 482 Visa to Skills in Demand 482 Visa
TSS visa applications that were not submitted before 7 December 2024, had to be reassessed and submitted under the new SID visa requirements.
All nomination and visa applications for a TSS visa made before the commencement of the amendments will be processed using the requirements that were in force at the time that the application was made.
Where there is a lodged nomination application for a TSS visa that was not accompanied by a corresponding TSS visa application before the amendments commenced, this nomination can be ‘linked’ to the new SID visa application (provided the nomination is still valid).
Approved TSS nominations may be linked to SID visa applications until the nomination approval ceases, 12 months from the date of approval. Approved 186 nominations may be linked to the visa applications lodged on or after 7 December 2024 until the nomination approval ceases, 6 months from the date of approval.
How this Impacts Businesses and Professionals
While certain occupations have been removed from the occupations list, the SID 482 visa requirements overall provide greater flexibility to visa holders.
However, as a result of the strengthened mobility provisions for visa holders and change to the Temporary Residence Transition stream qualifying period for permanent residence. Employers will need to review their employee value proposition to retain sponsored visa holders in a competitive labour market given the investment involved in sponsoring foreign workers.
The Three Skills in Demand (SID) streams
Effective from 7 December 2024, the SID 482 visa includes three streams.
1. Specialist Skills
2. Core Skills
3. Labour Agreement
Shared rules for all three SID 482 streams
- Length – You can stay for up to four years each time.
- For Hong Kong passport holders this extends up to 5 years
- Visa label – It’s still called Subclass 482.
- Pay floor – The usual TSMIT (temporary skills minimum income threshold) and market-rate test remains unchanged.
- Work history – You only need 1 year of skilled experience in the past 5 years (it used to be 2).
- English – Same bar as the old medium-term TSS: IELTS 5.0 overall and 5 in each skill (or matching scores in PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET, CAE). The old test-score timing and exemption rules still apply.
- Newborns in Australia – If you hold a SID (or old TSS) visa and have a baby here, the baby automatically gets a SID visa. Just remember to register the birth with Home Affairs as soon as possible.
- It is free to add your child to your visa, link your visa to their passport and add your child to your visa application
- Important Note: Once you have notified Home Affairs and provided evidence of your child’s birth, they will be considered to hold any visa/s that you and the other parent held when your child was born. However, your child is not considered an Australian citizen at time of birth or a permanent resident.
- SAF levy – Employers still pay the Skilling Australians Fund levy, there is no price change.
- Switching employers – Current TSS holders can move to a new employer only if
- their job is on the CSOL, or
- the new role meets the Specialist Skills salary threshold. If not, they can’t transfer under SID and would need another pathway.
Stream | Typical use-case | Pay & skills trigger |
|---|---|---|
Specialist Skills |
Niche, high-income roles |
Salary at or above the Specialist Skills threshold (indexed each July) |
Core Skills |
Most jobs on the CSOL |
Meets the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT, indexed each july) |
Labour Agreement |
Occupations negotiated with government (eg. regional or industry gaps) |
Terms set in that agreement |
All three streams share the same visa label (Subclass 482), can run up to four years, and follow the old market salary rules.
Quick eligibility checklist
- The job must sit on the CSOL or be covered by a labour agreement.
- Experience: at least 12 months full-time (or equivalent part-time) at the required skill level in the past five years.
- English: IELTS 5.0 overall with 5 in each band (or equivalent scores in PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET, or CAE). Exemptions apply for certain passports, five years of full-time English-medium study, or salaries above AUD 96,400.
- Health insurance: keep adequate cover for the whole stay (Medicare is fine if you’re from an RHCA country).
- Good character & health checks as usual.
English requirements for the SID 482 visa (2025 edition)
Satisfying the English requirement isn’t just a box to tick for your visa application or Home Affairs, it’s what lets you:
- Do the job well. Clear chats with your boss, coworkers and clients keep projects on track, safe and productive.
- Settle in faster. Reading rental ads, banking online or seeing a doctor is easier when you’re confident with the language.
- Blend into local life. Joining a sports club, making friends at the pub or helping your kids with schoolwork all hinge on everyday English.
- Stay on the road to PR. You’ll need English again for the Subclass 186 permanent residence step, so the skills you build now pay off later.
That’s why the government links the SID 482 visa to minimum test scores. Meeting (or beating) that benchmark saves headaches now and opens doors down the track.
Approved language tests and scores
The Department of Home Affairs accepts a range of English language tests to demonstrate proficiency. Each test assesses the applicant’s skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, providing a comprehensive evaluation of their English language abilities.
IELTS is a widely recognised and accepted test that measures English language proficiency on a nine-band scale. It assesses the ability to communicate in English across all four language skills: speaking, listening, writing and reading.
OET is specifically designed for healthcare professionals and evaluates their English language skills in a healthcare context.
PTE Academic is a computer-based test that assesses English language proficiency through various tasks and question types.
TOEFL iBT is an internet-based test that measures the ability to use and understand English at the university level. It assesses all four language skills and is widely accepted by universities and other educational institutions around the world.
And of course, last but not least, the Cambridge English: C1 Advanced test (the CAE).
Minimum English Language Test Scores
The minimum test scores for English language proficiency vary depending on the test taken. The test must be completed within 3 years before the date of submitting the visa application.
Prove basic workplace English — IELTS 5.0 overall with at least 5 in each band (or the matching score in another approved test) taken within the last 3 years.
Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|
IELTS (Academic or General) |
5.0 |
5.0 |
PTE Academic |
36 |
36 |
TOEFL iBT |
35 |
L 4 · R 4 · W 14 · S 14 |
OET |
— |
B in each sub-test |
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) |
154 |
147 (but must achieve 154 overall) |
Note: Healthcare applicants can still use OET
Exemptions: Who can skip the test
While the English language requirement is a standard part of a visa application, there are exceptions that can provide some individuals with an opportunity to bypass this requirement. These exemptions recognise alternative ways in which individuals can demonstrate their language proficiency and suitability for their chosen path.
You may be exempt if any of these apply:
- Passport from 🇳🇿 NZ, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇬🇧 UK, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇺🇸 USA
- Five years of full-time study in English (secondary or higher education)
- Licence or registration already granted for your job and you had to pass an English test at the same or higher level
- Salary ≥ AUD 96,400 and you work for an overseas business or its branch in Australia
- Diplomatic or consular exemptions may apply if the nominated occupation in Australia is performed at a diplomatic or consular mission of another country or an Office of the Authorities of Taiwan
Exemptions Based on Nationality
One of the ways in which applicants may be exempt from meeting the English language requirements is based on their country of passport.
There are countries that have a long history of English proficiency and education, making it unnecessary for their citizens to prove their language skills. In these cases, applicants from these countries may be automatically exempt from the English language requirements:
- New Zealand 🇳🇿
- Canada 🇨🇦
- United Kingdom 🇬🇧
- Ireland 🇮🇪
- United States of America 🇺🇸
Exemptions Based on Education
Another way in which applicants may be eligible for an exemption from the 482 visa English requirements is through their studies.
In certain cases, individuals who have studied in their countries of birth in English language or in English-speaking countries may be able to demonstrate their practical language skills acquired through studying in an English-speaking environment.
This exemption recognizes the fact that language skills can be developed and honed through real-life experiences, such as studying full time.
It acknowledges that individuals who have been immersed in an English-speaking environment for a significant amount of time are likely to have acquired the necessary language proficiency to succeed in their studies or work.
The exemption can be claimed on the basis of at least 5 years of full‑time study in a secondary education institution or higher education institution where the instruction was delivered in English.
Full‑time study means:
(a) in relation to a secondary education institution in a particular country—the standard number of contact hours that a student would undertake in that country; or
(b) in relation to a higher education institution—the completion of at least 3 subjects in each semester or trimester of study.
Exemptions: Who can skip the test
A sufficient skill level in English helps to keep you productive, safe, and on track for permanent residence. Failing the test does mean that Home Affairs will refuse your visa. However, you don’t need to lose hope, you can sit another test and relodge, but that costs time and money.
Tips to help you do your best
Pick the test that suits you:
- Match it to your style (if possible). If you’re good at computer-based exams, PTE might be a good option. Prefer pen and paper? Go for IELTS.
- Check job rules. Some licences (healthcare, for example) lean toward OET, so make sure your industry accepts the test you plan to submit.
- Play to your strengths. Check the scoring tables first, choose the test where your stronger skills (writing, speaking, etc.) carry more weight.
Once you’ve picked your test:
- Learn the format. Watch a full sample test so there are no surprises on the day.
- Practise under the clock. Time pressure is half the battle.
- Get help if needed. A prep course or a few sessions with an English tutor can help you achieve better scores.
When you’re ready for the test:
- Book the test early — slots fill fast.
- Use the official practice material for your chosen exam.
- Aim higher than the minimum scores to leave room for small mistakes from possible test day nerves.
Need a hand with the paperwork or test planning? Reach out and we’ll help walk you through it.
What if I fail the English Requirement?
If you fail to meet the required English language test scores or exemptions, your visa application usually gets rejected.
Failing to meet the 482 visa English requirement can significantly impact the immigration journey. It may require you to revise your strategy, reevaluate your eligibility, and seek alternative visa options.
If you do fail your test (or you have already), there may be opportunities to resit the test. Allowing you to address any weaknesses and improve your chances of meeting the 482 visa English language requirements.
If you do have any questions or need guidance on what to do next then please get in touch. We can walk you through the process and support you where you need it.
Visa conditions for the SID 482 Visa
The two main 482 visa conditions imposed on the Subclass 482 visa are:
- 8607 – Approved work only
- Stay in the nominated occupation for the approved sponsor.
- If you leave your employer you will need to find a new sponsor or another visa within 180 days
- 8501 – Maintain health insurance
There are no limits on travel, and studying is fine but you’ll pay international fees.
Let’s get into some of the details of these conditions so you know what to expect.
Approved work only (visa condition 8607)
This condition means that you must:
- only work in the occupation for which your visa was approved. To work in a different occupation you must apply for and be granted a new Skills in Demand (SID) visa (limited exceptions apply)
- only work for the employer who nominated the position you are working in (limited exceptions apply)
- not cease employment for a period that exceeds 180 consecutive days, or a total of 365 days across the duration of your visa
- hold any licence, registration or membership that is mandatory to perform the occupation nominated in relation to you
- comply with each condition or requirement to which the licence, registration or membership is subject
- notify us in writing as soon as practicable if the licence, registration or membership ceases to be in force, or is revoked or cancelled, or if an application for the licence, registration or membership is refused
- not engage in work that is inconsistent with the licence, registration or membership, including any conditions or requirements to which the licence, registration or membership is subject.
If you stop working for the employer who nominated you, within 180 days you must do one of the following:
- find another employer to nominate you
- be granted another type of visa
- make appropriate arrangements to depart Australia
Failure to meet these obligations would risk you being in breach of condition 8607 and could have your visa cancelled.
Your visa permits you to change employers if they have an approved nomination with you identified as the nominee, and the occupation specified in the nomination is the same as the occupation that was approved for this visa.
It is important to note that you cannot commence employment with a new employer until your SID nomination (also known as a nomination/visa transfer) is approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
If the new employer nominates you in a different occupation, you must lodge a new SID 482 visa application and wait for this application to be approved too.
Maintain health insurance (visa condition 8607)
This condition means that you must maintain adequate health insurance while you are in Australia. Reciprocal health arrangements apply to certain countries that have a Reciprocal Health Care Arrangement (RHCA) with Australia.
11 countries currently have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement in place:
- Malta
- Belgium
- Finland
- Italy
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Ireland
- Slovenia
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
This agreement entitles the passport holders from the above mentioned countries to medical care under Medicare. Upon arrival in Australia, you can visit a Medicare office and apply for a temporary Medicare card which will have the same validity as your visa.
If you are from a country that does not have a RHCA with Australia, you must cover full costs of medical care.
Due to the fact that you are liable for medical costs, at the visa assessment stage, you are expected to provide proof that you have signed up for private health insurance and subsequently, condition 8607 is imposed on the SID 482 visa to ensure that you maintain it throughout the duration of the visa.
Travel on a 482 visa
There are no travel restrictions while you hold a valid 482 visa. This visa comes with multiple entries and you can exit and enter Australia as many times as you like throughout the duration of the visa.
Study on a 482 visa
There are no study restrictions while you hold a valid SID 482 visa. As the primary visa holder, you can study part-time or full-time if you have any spare time. However, you will be treated as an international student and expected to pay international school fees.
Family and Dependent Conditions
Your family members (spouse, de-facto partner, child) can be included on your visa if they meet all secondary criteria and can demonstrate that they are members of your family unit.
They receive their own SID 482 visa, which is linked to your visa as the primary visa holder, allowing them to work and study freely, however they must also hold health insurance (visa condition 8607).
At the visa assessment stage, you must provide proof that your family members are included in your health insurance (couple/family cover) or they have signed up for their own health insurance.
SID Visa Cost and Your Pathway to Permanent Residency
Skills in Demand Visa Fees (July 2025)
SID visa lodgement fees will align with the TSS fees under the medium-term stream:
Applicant | Government Charge |
|---|---|
Main |
AUD 3,210 |
Secondary ≥18 yrs |
AUD 3,210 |
Secondary <18 yrs |
AUD 805 |
The Skilling Australians Fund levy still applies and is paid by the employer.
From SID to permanent residence
The TSS visa has historically been a pathway to permanent residence under the Employer Nomination Scheme and this is set to continue under the Skills in Demand visa.
After 24 months working in Australia (with any approved employer) you can move into the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme – Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream. Salary thresholds for the 186 now mirror that of the SID visa, and adult dependents can be included even if they’re 23 or older, provided they already hold a linked 482 visa.
Your pathway from SID 482 to permanent residence (Subclass 186):
- The two-year rule – Rack up 24 months of sponsored work (any approved employer) within the last 3 years and you can jump to a Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.
- Same pay floor – The 186 visa now uses the SID income threshold, indexed every July, for both TRT and Direct Entry applications.
- Family paperwork simplified – Employers no longer list your partner or kids in the 186 nomination. You add them yourself when you lodge the visa form.
- Stuck on an old TSS? – Even if your job has dropped off the new CSOL, your existing TSS time still counts toward the 2-year requirement, so the PR door stays open.
- Dependants aged 23 + – Adult children can tag along on your 186 application if they already hold a linked 482 as your family member.
Need personalised advice or help with the paperwork? Drop us a line and we’ll guide you through every step — from first nomination to the day you get permanent residency.
Tips for employers
- Review pay and benefits: SID holders can switch jobs more easily, so retention matters.
- Lodge nominations early, unused TSS nominations can link to a SID visa if still valid.
- Track changes in duties or salary, major shifts may trigger a fresh nomination.
Staying compliant on a SID 482 visa
Before you get too deep into salary charts and nomination codes, it helps to know why the fine print matters.
The SID 482 visa is a “permission + promise” deal. Home Affairs lets you work in a specific role, and you promise to stick to the rules that keep local wages fair and workplaces safe. Break that promise — say, by drifting into an unapproved role, slipping below the required pay, or letting your health cover lapse — and the consequences can be serious. It could mean visa cancellation for you, hefty penalties for your employer, and a detour on your path to permanent residence.
Staying compliant is straightforward once you know what you need to do.
For both the visa holder and the sponsoring employer, the trick really is just to keep good records and speak up when something changes.
What to track | Why it matters | Who does it? |
|---|---|---|
Hours, work site & duties |
Confirms you’re still doing the job Home Affairs approved. Big duty changes may need a fresh nomination. |
Employer & worker |
Pay slips |
Salary must stay at or above the market rate (and any figure in the nomination). |
Employer |
Role changes |
A sideways move or promotion can trigger a new nomination/visa if the ANZSCO code shifts. |
Employer (notify) |
Health insurance cover |
Health insurance must be active the whole time you’re in Australia. This helps make sure you can get adequate medical assistance when you need it. |
Worker |
Police record |
Serious offences can void both renewal and PR plans. |
Worker |
Family status |
If your relationship ends, you must tell Home Affairs, especially if your partner’s visa status relies on your sponsorship. |
Worker |
Keep on top of this and renewal (or the jump to PR) becomes routine instead of stressful.
482 Visa Extensions and Renewals
The visa extension process is essentially just a repeat of the initial application. If you are still working for the same employer, the business must lodge a new nomination, and you will need to lodge a new visa application before the current visa expires.
Make sure that you still meet the eligibility criteria, including continued employment and ongoing compliance with 482 visa conditions. You may be able to use the English language test results if they are still valid. However, you may be required to undergo a new health examination and provide new police clearances, especially if you have travelled outside Australia while holding your 482 visa.
Get the paperwork in early and make sure every form is accurate. That’s the easiest way to keep your extension process smooth and hassle free.
Need help?
The SID rules may be simpler than the old TSS, but timing and paperwork still trip people up. If you’d like one-on-one guidance, whether you’re applying yourself or sponsoring staff, reach out and we’ll walk you through each step.
Wrapping up: Over to you
The new Skills in Demand 482 visa really comes down to three main points:
1. More flexibility – shorter work-experience rule, wider job-switch window, and clear PR pathway after 24 months.
2. Same core obligations – CSMIT and market-rate pay, approved duties, valid health cover, and English at (or above) IELTS 5.0
3. Big rewards for staying organised – keep the records, lodge on time and the jump from temporary to permanent becomes a very smooth process.
If you hold a 482 (old or new), or if you’re an employer weighing up sponsorship, the safest move is to plan early and ask questions sooner rather than later. A quick chat now can save weeks of back-and-forth with Home Affairs later on.
Information correct as at 28 July 2025. Migration regulations change often; always seek personalised advice before you act. This article will be reviewed regularly — check the version dates and details in the footer for updates.