The Department of Home Affairs in Australia has flagged significant changes to the employer-sponsored Permanent Residence (PR) pathways for Subclass 482 Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa Holders, effective from 25 November 2023. Pending regulatory approval, these changes will impact new applications lodged on or after the specified date.
The following is an outline of the proposed changes. Please check with us before relying on the above pathways.
Changes to Subclass 482 TSS Visa Program
One notable alteration is the removal of restrictions on the number of Short-Term Stream 482 TSS Visa applications that visa holders can make while in Australia. Starting from 25 November 2023, applicants can now lodge a third or subsequent Short-Term Stream TSS Visa from onshore. However, those with visas expiring before this date will need to travel outside Australia to submit their application.
Changes to Nomination Requirements
Employers will gain the flexibility to nominate all Subclass 482 TSS Visa Stream holders for PR pathways, irrespective of the stream or Labour Agreement. The nominated worker must continue working in the designated occupation, but the requirement for working with a sponsoring employer reduces from 3 to 2 years before being eligible to apply for PR.
Implications for Employers and Skilled Migrants
The changes aim to provide greater certainty to skilled migrants regarding their PR pathways and enable employers to retain global talent, particularly in times of skill shortages. This shift offers employers an opportune time to consider PR for employees who may not have been eligible previously.
If you seek an assessment of your options to live and work in Australia, contact us for an assessment of your visa options.
