On December 7, 2024, the Australian government introduced a transformative update to its skilled migration system: the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa. While the SID Visa retains the same visa number as its predecessor—the Subclass 482 Visa—it introduces new pathways, streamlined requirements, and enhanced flexibility for both skilled migrants and employers.

Here’s a detailed look at the new SID Visa and what it means for you.

Key Features of the SID Visa

1. Same Visa Number, New Opportunities:

   • The SID Visa continues under the Subclass 482 Visa, ensuring continuity while offering new benefits.

2. Standard Validity Period:

   • Visas are granted for four years, or five years for Hong Kong citizens.

3. Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR):

   • Eligible workers can transition to PR via the Subclass 186 visa after meeting specific criteria.

4. Reduced Work Experience Requirement:

   • Applicants now need just one year of full-time work experience within the past five years, compared to the previous two-year requirement.

5. Enhanced Flexibility:

   • Visa holders can spend up to 12 months without a sponsoring employer during their visa period, in maximum six-month intervals.

6. Updated Occupation Lists:

   • The new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) replaces the outdated STSOL and MLTSSL, broadening the range of eligible occupations.

Streams of the SID Visa

1. Specialist Skills Stream

• Purpose: Targets highly skilled professionals in critical roles earning AUD $135,000+ annually.

• Key Criteria:

  • Salary Threshold: Minimum AUD $135,000 (excluding superannuation)

  • Work Experience: Five years in a relevant role

  • Visa Period: Up to four years

  • English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent

• Eligible Occupations:

  • STEM professionals

  • Medical specialists

  • Senior IT developers

  • Executives in high-tech industries

• Benefits:

  • Priority visa processing

  • PR pathway after three years of continuous employment

2. Core Skills Stream

• Purpose: Addresses labour shortages in critical sectors with salaries between AUD $73,500 and $135,000.

• Key Criteria:

  • Salary Threshold: AUD $73,500 - $135,000

  • Work Experience: One year in a related role

  • Visa Period: Up to four years

  • English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent

• Eligible Occupations:

  • Nurses

  • Engineers

  • Cybersecurity specialists

  • Construction professionals

• Benefits:

  • Broader occupation coverage

  • PR pathway after two years with an approved sponsor

3. Labour Agreement Stream (Essential Skills)

• Purpose: Tailored for employers in regional or niche industries with unique workforce needs.

• Key Criteria:

  • Salary Threshold: Negotiated with the government

  • Work Experience: As per the labour agreement

  • Visa Period: Up to four years

  • English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent

• Eligible Occupations:

  • Agricultural workers

  • Regional healthcare staff

• Benefits:

  • Flexible, customised migration solutions

  • PR opportunities via long-term agreements

Common Criteria Across Streams

All SID visa applicants must meet the following shared requirements:

• English Language Proficiency: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent

• Work Experience: One year of full-time work within the past five years (Specialist Skills Stream requires five years)

• Visa Application Charges:

  • Main applicant: AUD $3,115

  • Secondary adults: AUD $3,115

  • Secondary children: AUD $780

Why the SID Visa Matters

The SID Visa, under the Subclass 482 framework, simplifies Australia’s skilled migration process and offers:

1. Broader Occupation Access: A consolidated and updated occupation list catering to more industries.

2. Improved Flexibility: Easier job mobility and enhanced sponsorship options for both employers and visa holders.

3. Permanent Residency Pathways: Clearer and faster routes to PR ensure long-term opportunities for skilled workers.

Get Expert Help with Your SID Visa Application

Navigating the changes brought by the SID Visa can be challenging without the right guidance. At One Planet Migration Law, we specialise in helping employers and skilled workers understand and leverage these new opportunities.

📲 Contact us today to explore how the SID Visa can work for you.

Simplifying immigration. Connecting humanity.

Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.