482 Skills in Demand Visa
482 SID Visa Application
The visa application is the worker's application to the Department of Home Affairs for the grant of the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482). It is a separate lodgement from the employer's nomination. Both must be approved before the visa is granted.
Personal eligibility and evidence
The applicant must have at least one year of relevant full-time work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related field within the last five years. Vocational English language proficiency must be demonstrated, typically by an IELTS score of at least 5.0 in each component or equivalent. Health examinations and police clearances are required.
For certain trade occupations in the Core Skills stream, a skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority may be required. The visa application may be lodged concurrently with the nomination or within six months of nomination approval.
If employment with the sponsor ends, the 482 SID visa holder has 180 consecutive days, or up to 365 cumulative days across multiple gaps, to find a new approved sponsor before the visa may be cancelled. During this period, the holder may not work for any other employer.
Work experience
At least one year of relevant full-time work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related field within the last five years. Reduced from the two-year requirement under the former TSS visa.
English language
Vocational English is required, generally IELTS 5.0 in each component or equivalent. Some occupations require a higher standard. English test results must be current at the time of lodgement.
Health and character
Health examinations must be conducted through a Department-approved panel physician. Police clearances are required for each country where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
Secondary applicants
A spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children can be included. Secondary applicants are entitled to work and study in Australia for the visa duration. Additional charges apply per secondary applicant.
1 year
Work experience required
IELTS 5.0
Vocational English
180 days
Gap period if job ends
4 years
Maximum visa period
Why instruct Visa Plan for your 482 visa application?
Complete application file
We prepare the visa application with all required evidence, ensuring consistency with the nomination and eliminating gaps that commonly cause delays or requests for further information from the Department.
Sponsor change advice
If your employment ends during the visa period, you have a limited window to find a new sponsor. We advise on your options and manage the new nomination process to maintain your lawful status.
Permanent residence strategy
The 482 visa is a stepping stone. We advise on the employment period required for the 186 Transition stream and build your migration strategy from the visa application through to permanent residence.
482 SID visa application information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and is current as at April 2026. Eligibility criteria and application charges are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.