Australia continues to be a leading destination for skilled professionals seeking career growth and international opportunities. If you’re exploring ways to work in Australia, the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa is one of the most commonly used employer-sponsored pathways.

This guide offers a clear, step-by-step overview of how the Subclass 482 visa works, who it is for, and how you can apply. At AIM Lawyers, our team of experienced immigration lawyers in Melbourne supports individuals and employers through every stage of the visa process, helping skilled workers secure opportunities and build careers in Australia.

What Is the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa?

The Subclass 482 visa is a temporary work visa that allows approved Australian employers to sponsor overseas skilled workers for roles they are unable to fill locally. This visa was introduced to help address genuine labour shortages in Australia and offers flexible options for workers across a range of industries.

Depending on the stream, this visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to four years, with potential pathways to permanent residency.

Streams Under the Subclass 482 Visa

There are three main streams under the Subclass 482 visa, each with different conditions, occupations, and durations.

Short-Term Stream

This stream is designed for occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). It allows a stay of up to two years (or four years if an International Trade Obligation applies).

Key features:

  • Not typically eligible for permanent residency. 
  • Must satisfy a genuine temporary stay requirement. 
  • English requirement: overall IELTS 5.0 (minimum 4.5 in each band).

Medium-Term Stream

This stream targets roles on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). It offers a longer stay and the potential for transition to permanent residency.

Key features:

  • Valid for up to four years. 
  • Can lead to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 visa. 
  • English requirement: IELTS 5.0 minimum in each band.

Labour Agreement Stream

This stream applies when an employer has a labour agreement with the Australian Government to sponsor workers for occupations not listed on the standard occupation lists.

Key features:

  • Customised terms based on the agreement. 
  • Often used in regional, niche, or high-demand sectors. 
  • May allow access to permanent residency.

You can learn more about employer obligations and sponsorship through our employer sponsored visa service page.

Who Can Apply for a Subclass 482 Visa?

To apply for a visa subclass 482, both the employer and the applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements.

As an applicant, you must:

  • Be nominated for a position by an approved sponsor. 
  • Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list. 
  • Demonstrate at least two years of relevant work experience. 
  • Meet minimum English language requirements. 
  • Pass health and character checks. 
  • Hold necessary licences or registration (if required for the role).

In most cases, the employer must also prove they cannot find a suitably qualified Australian worker for the nominated position.

Occupation Lists: What Jobs Are Eligible?

Each stream under the 482 visa is linked to specific occupation lists, published and updated by the Department of Home Affairs.

Eligible roles include:

  • IT professionals 
  • Engineers 
  • Medical and nursing staff 
  • Tradespeople 
  • Chefs and hospitality workers 
  • Agricultural workers

These lists are regularly updated, so it’s important to confirm that your occupation is currently listed. If your role is not on the STSOL or MLTSSL, your employer may still be able to sponsor you under a labour agreement.

How to Apply for the 482 Visa: Step-by-Step

The 482 visa application is a three-stage process involving both employer and employee. Below is a simplified outline of how it works.

Step 1: Employer Becomes a Standard Business Sponsor

The Australian employer must apply for approval to become a Standard Business Sponsor. This allows them to nominate overseas workers for temporary positions.

Step 2: Nomination of the Position

Once sponsorship is approved, the employer lodges a nomination application, which includes:

  • Details of the position 
  • Labour Market Testing (evidence that no Australian workers are available) 
  • Salary and employment conditions 
  • Proof the position aligns with the business’s operations 

Step 3: Visa Application

Once the nomination is lodged or approved, the applicant can submit the 482 visa application, providing evidence of:

  • Work history and qualifications 
  • English proficiency 
  • Health insurance 
  • Police clearances 
  • Any licensing or registration requirements 

Each step must be properly documented. Working with a legal expert can reduce errors and improve the strength of your application.

Start your skilled visa journey with expert legal guidance.

Can the Subclass 482 Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

Yes, in many cases the 482 visa can provide a pathway to permanent residency under the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme. However, this is typically available only through the medium-term stream or a labour agreement.

To be eligible for PR, you generally need:

  • To have worked for the same employer in the nominated occupation for at least two or three years. 
  • To meet age, English, and skills requirements. 
  • Your occupation to be on the MLTSSL. 

You can check your points and eligibility using the skilled visa Australia points calculator.

While there is no guaranteed PR pathway under the 482 visa, proper planning with a legal adviser can help map a realistic path forward.

Can I Include My Family on a 482 Visa?

Yes. The Subclass 482 visa allows dependent family members to be included in your application. This can include your:

  • Spouse or de facto partner. 
  • Children or stepchildren. 

Family members can live, work, and study in Australia for the duration of the visa. You will need to provide documentation such as marriage or birth certificates to support their inclusion.

How Long Is the 482 Visa Valid For?

The duration of the 482 visa depends on your stream:

  • Short-term stream: up to 2 years (renewable once onshore) 
  • Medium-term stream: up to 4 years (renewable and PR eligible) 
  • Labour agreement stream: varies based on agreement terms 

Visa holders may be eligible to renew their visa or transition to permanent residency after meeting work and eligibility criteria.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for a 482 Visa?

While legal representation is not mandatory, working with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer helps ensure:

  • Your eligibility is correctly assessed. 
  • All documents are properly prepared and submitted. 
  • Risks of delay or refusal are minimised. 

At AIM Lawyers, we assist individuals and employers across Australia and internationally with the entire 482 visa process, offering strategic advice, application preparation, and ongoing support.

Find out if you’re eligible for a 482 visa — talk to an immigration lawyer today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa?
It’s a visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers when they cannot find suitable local talent.

What are the streams under Subclass 482?
There are three: short-term stream, medium-term stream, and labour agreement stream — each offering different durations and residency pathways.

Can the 482 visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes, particularly under the medium-term or labour agreement stream, with employer nomination after 2–3 years of work.

What are the basic requirements to apply?
You must have a sponsor, a listed occupation, two years of relevant experience, English proficiency, and pass health and character checks.

Do I need legal help to apply for a 482 visa?
While not required, working with a visa lawyer can help you avoid errors, improve your application, and clarify your residency options.

Final Thoughts

The visa subclass 482 offers an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia with the support of an Australian employer. With multiple streams, varying occupation lists, and potential permanent residency pathways, it is a flexible and powerful visa option — but only when applied for correctly.

Considering working in Australia? Speak to a visa specialist today.