Australia’s Skills in Demand (SID) visa officially launched on 7 December 2024, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa. This represents the biggest overhaul of employer-sponsored migration since 2018.
Three Visa Streams
1. Specialist Skills Stream
For highly skilled professionals earning over $135,000 AUD per year. No occupation list requirement, 7-day priority processing, 3,000 places per year.
2. Core Skills Stream
The main stream. Applicants must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and earn at least $73,150 AUD (2025–26, indexed annually).
3. Essential Skills Stream
For specific sectors (aged care, disability) via labour agreements. Details still being finalised.
Key Benefits
- 4-year visa validity
- Change employers more easily — 180 days to find a new sponsor
- Time with any approved employer counts towards PR
- Work experience requirement reduced from 2 years to 1 year
Transitioning From TSS 482
Existing TSS visa holders can transition to SID at their next renewal without restarting sponsorship, easing HR burden.
Book a free consultation with Ultimate Migration today.