What do you need to know about the new temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)?

Default Author • March 29, 2018

Before 18 March 2018, most overseas doctors came to Australia on a temporary Skilled Work Visa – more commonly referred to as the 457 visa. That visa gave approved applicants up to four years on the visa, it could be renewed multiple times and allowed their partner and dependents to travel, live and work in Australia for the same duration.


However, from here on out the 457 visa has been replaced with the new Temporary Skill Shortage visa – TSS (subclass 482). The changes follow announcements made by the government in April 2017. While there has been a lot of speculation since that initial announcement, the official roll-out date comes with clarification on the requirements and changes.


#Australia: 482 skill shortage visa now in effect, while global talent visa pilot is announced


Read more here:https://t.co/2t6jnCFiYw#intled pic.twitter.com/7zfOJI4dOi


— The PIE News (@ThePIENews) March 23, 2018


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What do you need to know about the 482 TSS visa?


The first question on everyone’s mind is: What happens if you already have an outstanding 457 visa application? If it was lodged before March 18 it will continue to be processed and assessed according to the migration regulations in place prior to this date.


So what are the most prominent changes?


The occupation list for this visa has been modified and the details of the relevant positions can be found on the government website.


There are now three visa streams for applicants based on their nominated occupation. Employers are required to nominate one of the following streams for the application and to meet the stated requirements:


Short Term Stream

  • The applicant’s intended occupation must be on the Short Term Skilled Occupations List
  • Applicants must prove they are Genuine Temporary Entrants
  • Once approved, the visa can then be valid for up to two years and can only be renewed onshore once


Medium Term Stream

  • The applicant’s intended occupation must be on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List
  • Applicants must show a higher level of English language competency than short term stream applicants
  • Once approved, the visa can be valid for up to four years and be renewed without limitation
  • Applicants for this visa may be eligible for permanent employer sponsored options


Labour Agreement Stream

  • This stream is for employers who have negotiated a labour agreement with the Australian Government
  • Terms and visa dates will vary based on the agreement


All streams of applicants will need to prove that they have worked in their nominated occupation or a related field for at least two years. For those applying to the short-stream, the application will require you to prove you are only intending to stay in Australia temporarily.


Employers sponsoring either stream of candidate will need to provide evidence that they have advertised the position domestically and have been unsuccessful in sourcing qualified local labour. Additionally, businesses must demonstrate that there is a genuine need for the position based on the scale and scope of the business.


All applicants must be entering a full-time position for the duration of their stay.



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So, how much will this all cost? Department fees are as follows:


  • Standard Business Sponsorship application: AU$420.00
  • TSS nomination: AU$330.00
  • TSS application:
  • Short-term stream applicants: starting from AU$1,150.00
  • Medium-term and labour agreement stream applicants: starting from AU$2,400.00


Still feeling confused? Give us a call!


Careers Connections is here to help you navigate through the complicated nuances of visa requirements. Our dedicated compliance team can ensure you fit the specifications and have all the right paperwork sorted before starting your new locum or permanent doctor job.


To learn more about the TSS visa and what it means for you, reach out to our team today!


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