Overview of the 482 Visa
The Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa is Australia's primary employer-sponsored temporary work visa. It allows Australian businesses to sponsor skilled overseas workers when they cannot find suitably qualified Australian workers.
In 2026, the 482 visa remains the most common pathway for Indian and Malaysian professionals to work in Australia, accounting for approximately 35% of all temporary skilled migration.
Employer Sponsorship Obligations
Employers sponsoring 482 visa holders must comply with a range of obligations:
- Pay the worker at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher
- Ensure terms and conditions of employment are no less favorable than those provided to equivalent Australian workers
- Keep records and provide these to the Department upon request
- Cooperate with inspections by authorized officers
- Pay travel costs for the sponsored worker to leave Australia if required
Short-Term vs Medium-Term Streams
The 482 visa operates through two main streams. The Short-Term stream covers occupations on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and grants a visa for up to 2 years. The Medium-Term stream covers occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and grants a visa for up to 4 years, with a pathway to permanent residency.
Occupation Lists & Skills Assessment
The nominated occupation must be on the relevant occupation list, and the worker must generally have at least 2 years of relevant work experience and any required skills assessments or licensing. The specific occupation list applicable depends on the worker's occupation and the location of the position.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
482 visa holders in the Medium-Term stream may be eligible for the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) visa after working for the same employer for at least 3 years. This provides a clear pathway from temporary to permanent residency.
Collins Quarters International assists both employers and employees with the 482 visa process. Contact our Migration team for expert guidance.
