Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa (SID)
Skilled workers with an Australian employer sponsor for an occupation in demand. Replaced the TSS visa.
The Skills in Demand visa (SID) (subclass 482) is an Australian employer sponsored visa. This guide covers who the 482 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$3,210 (Core stream; Specialist higher)) and processing time (~1-3 months (priority 5-10 days)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 482 visa is for
Skilled workers with an Australian employer sponsor for an occupation in demand. Replaced the TSS visa.
Pathway to PR via subclass 186 (ENS) after 2 years with an eligible sponsor.
Subclass 482 eligibility criteria
- An approved sponsor who nominates you for a genuine position
- Relevant skills and (usually) at least 1 year of experience
- Occupation eligible under the relevant stream (Core or Specialist Skills)
- Salary at or above the required threshold (CSIT/TSMIT)
- Competent English; skills assessment for some occupations
Subclass 482 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Skills in Demand visa (SID) (subclass 482) is ~$3,210 (Core stream; Specialist higher), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months (priority 5-10 days). Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary (up to 4 yrs) |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | Up to 4 years |
| Work rights | Full-time for your sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ~$3,210 (Core stream; Specialist higher) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months (priority 5-10 days) |
| Pathway to PR | Pathway to PR via subclass 186 (ENS) after 2 years with an eligible sponsor. |
Pathway & next steps
Pathway to PR via subclass 186 (ENS) after 2 years with an eligible sponsor.
Many applicants also compare the 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa), the 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa), the 189 (Skilled Independent visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 482 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 482 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 482 visa cost?
The Skills in Demand visa (SID) (subclass 482) base application charge is ~$3,210 (Core stream; Specialist higher). Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 482 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months (priority 5-10 days). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 482 visa lead to permanent residence?
Pathway to PR via subclass 186 (ENS) after 2 years with an eligible sponsor.
Can I work on the subclass 482 visa?
Work rights on the Skills in Demand visa (SID) (subclass 482): Full-time for your sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation.
Who can apply for the 482 visa?
Skilled workers with an Australian employer sponsor for an occupation in demand. Replaced the TSS visa.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority