Big Changes to the TSS 482 Visa: Flexible Work Experience Rules for Skilled Workers
The Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482), frequently referred to as the 482 visa or sponsored visa, permits Australian companies to sponsor qualified international workers to fill labour shortages. One of the primary eligibility requirements for this visa is relevant work experience in the applicant's specified occupation. Recent revisions were implemented in August 2024, which increased flexibility around the standards and extended applicants’ eligibility.
What are the Updates to the Work Experience Requirements for the TSS visa?
Work Experience No Longer Limited to the Last Five Years
Previously, applicants had to show that their work experience was acquired within the last 5 years before applying. This restriction has been lifted, meaning older relevant work experience can now be counted towards meeting the 482 visa criteria.
Inclusion of Casual Employment
Casual employment, which was previously excluded from consideration, is now recognised as valid work experience. Applicants can now count casual work, provided it is relevant to the nominated occupation.
Part-Time and Casual Work Now Accepted, Full-Time Still Preferred
While full-time employment is still preferred, the new policy allows part-time and casual work to meet the visa’s work experience requirements. As long as the work is relevant to the occupation, applicants can still qualify without full-time positions.
Non-Continuous Work Experience
Applicants no longer need to demonstrate continuous employment. Gaps in work history are now permitted, as long as the total duration of relevant experience meets the required threshold.
What are the Implications for TSS Visa Applicants and Employers?
These changes offer more flexibility for applicants with varied work histories, especially those in sectors where part-time or casual work is common, such as hospitality, retail, and healthcare. For employers, this opens up a larger pool of potential candidates who may not have previously qualified under stricter conditions.
Other TSS Visa Requirements Remain
Although the work experience requirements have become more flexible, applicants must still meet other criteria for the Temporary Skill Shortage 482 Visa, such as passing a skills assessment, achieving the required English proficiency, and ensuring their occupation is listed on the appropriate Skilled Occupation Lists.
can I apply for PR after the TSS Visa?
TSS visa holders who apply under the Short-Term stream will be eligible for a pathway to PR that allows them to transition from the TSS Subclass 482 visa to the Employer Nominated Stream (ENS) (SUbclass 186) (TRT Stream) after working while holding a TSS visa for 2 years.
For those applying under the Medium-Term stream, which offers a pathway to permanent residency, the nominated occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and the applicant must secure a positive nomination from their employer.
These updates to the Subclass 482 visa reflect the Department of Home Affairs’ commitment to making the visa system more adaptable and inclusive. The changes allow applicants with diverse employment histories to qualify, benefiting both workers and employers in addressing Australia’s skill shortages.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
For any professional legal advice on the 482 visa and its eligibility requirements, contact us at Agape Henry Crux. Our Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law and our team of immigration lawyers are specialised in handling highly complex matters. You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
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