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Australia Immigration

Apply for Australia TSS Visa (Subclass 482) | Step-by-Step Guide 2026

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

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The Australian Department of Home Affairs introduced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa Subclass 482 as a replacement for the former 457 Visa. Its purpose is to help employers fill critical skill shortages when suitable Australian candidates are unavailable, while still prioritising local workers.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Sponsorship by a business approved by the Department of Home Affairs
  • A valid nomination for a position listed on an approved skilled occupation list
  • Application can be lodged from within or outside Australia

Visa Streams

This visa allows you to work in Australia under the following streams:

  • Short-Term Stream — Occupations on the STSOL, valid up to 2 years (4 years with trade obligations). Cost: AUD 1,150. Renewable once inside Australia.
  • Medium-Term Stream — Occupations on MLTSSL or ROL, valid up to 4 years. Cost: AUD 2,400. Renewable multiple times.
  • Labour Agreement Stream — For applicants sponsored under a labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs.

You may enter and exit Australia freely while holding this visa. Additionally, your family members can live, study, and work in Australia for the visa’s duration.

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FAQs: Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

1. What is the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) in Australia?

The TSS 482 visa allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers when they cannot find suitable candidates locally. It offers different streams based on the occupation list and duration of work.

2. How long does a 482 visa take to process?

Processing times vary depending on the stream: short-term, medium-term, or labour agreement. On average, it may take 1–4 months, but complex cases can take longer.

3. Can I apply for permanent residency after a 482 visa?

Yes. If you hold a medium-term stream visa and meet certain criteria (such as working for the same employer for at least three years in an eligible occupation), you may be able to apply for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or other pathways.

4. What are the English requirements for the 482 visa?

For the short-term stream, you need an IELTS score of at least 5.0 overall, with no band less than 4.5. For the medium-term stream, you need at least 5.0 in each band (or equivalent test scores).

5. Can I include family members in my 482 visa application?

Yes. You can include your spouse/partner and dependent children or stepchildren in your application. They will also be allowed to work and study in Australia while the visa is valid.