As of December 7, 2024, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) has been replaced by the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa. This change is part of the Australian Government’s effort to align the skilled migration framework with current economic demands through updates to the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
The CSOL includes 456 occupations identified as high demand across Australia, based on labour market analysis and consultations by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA). The SID visa allows employers to sponsor skilled migrants when suitable Australian candidates cannot be found, offering a pathway to permanent residency for these workers.
Key Features of the new Skills in Demand (SID)
- Extended Stay: SID visa holders can stay in Australia for up to four years, compared to the two-year limit for some TSS visa streams.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: A clearer route to permanent residency is available for SID visa holders through updated pathways under the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
New Streams under the SID Visa
- Specialist Skills Stream: For high-earning roles ($135,000+ per year) in specific occupational categories.
- Core Skills Stream: For those earning over $73,150 in CSOL-listed occupations.
- Labour Agreement Stream: Retains provisions from the TSS visa while updates are ongoing.
Employers must now demonstrate their financial capacity to cover the proposed salaries for the entire duration of the sponsored period.
Permanent Residency Pathways through Subclass 186 Visa
The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa provides a critical pathway for SID visa holders to transition to permanent residency in Australia. The Subclass 186 visa is divided into two main streams that cater to different circumstances and eligibility criteria:
1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
- Simplified Transition Requirements: The TRT stream allows skilled workers on a SID or TSS visa to apply for permanent residency after completing two years of work in Australia. Importantly, this stream no longer requires the worker to remain with the same employer for the entire two years, providing greater flexibility and job mobility.
- Broad Employer Base: Workers can now count employment with multiple employers toward the required period, making the pathway more adaptable to changes in employment situations.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Stream
- Direct Path to PR: The DE stream offers a direct route to permanent residency for workers in occupations listed on the CSOL. This list is more targeted, ensuring that workers in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction can access permanent residency more efficiently.
- Expanded Occupation List: The updated CSOL broadens the range of eligible occupations, providing more opportunities for skilled workers to secure permanent residency.
3. Additional Benefits and Changes
- Financial Requirements for Employers: Employers must prove their financial stability to sponsor workers, ensuring that only capable businesses can participate in the program.
- Inclusion of Family Members: Secondary applicants, such as family members of the primary visa holder, are now more easily included in the Subclass 186 visa application, streamlining the process for families moving to Australia.
Need Assistance?
Navigating these changes can be complex. For expert guidance and support tailored to your situation, whether you are an employer or a visa applicant, contact Australian Visa & Immigration Experts (AVIE). Our team of experienced professionals is ready to assist you in understanding and optimizing your visa options under the new SID and Subclass 186 frameworks.
Visit our website for more information: Get in touch.