New Changes to Subclass 482 and 457 visas

The Australian Government has introduced a new Australian permanent residency pathway for Subclass 482 and Subclass 457 visa holders, offering hope to thousands of prospective migrants across Australia.

Which 457 or 482 visa holder is eligible for subclass 186?

If you lived in Australia for at least 12 months between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021, you may be able to work towards permanent residency under these new rules.

You will be able to qualify for the Subclass 186 visa after fulfilling the following criteria within four (4) years of your Subclass 186 application:

• Hold one or more Subclass 457 or 482 visas for a total of at least three (3) years.
• Have maintained your employment with your sponsoring employer for a total of at least three (3) years.

You do not need to have an occupation on the Medium to Long-term Strategic Skills List and can hold Subclass 482 visas under any stream. This represents a massive change to the Australian skilled migration programme, offering a permanent residency pathway to people in many occupations which were previously ineligible. 

All other Subclass 186 nomination and visa criteria must be met. This includes age restrictions, English language requirements, and compliance with professional or trade licensing standards. 

Frequently Asked Questions?

Q: What if I changed employers over those three (3) years?

The regulations continue to require applicants to have worked in the nominated position for at least three (3) of the last four (4) years. This essentially requires that you maintain employment with a single employer for the prescribed time period. Changing employers will, in effect, reset this timer, delaying your permanent residency journey.

Q: Are all occupations eligible?

Whilst recent changes do exempt applicants from the occupation requirements of the Subclass 186 visa, they are still required to hold, or have held subclass 457 or 482 visas in the past. This, in effect, requires applicants to have an occupation specified under Instrument LIN 19/048. 

Q: How many Subclass 482 visas can I apply for under the short-term stream?

Whilst there is no limitation on the number of 482 visas which can be issued to an individual, only two consecutive Subclass 482 short-term stream visa applications can be lodged whilst physically in Australia. Any subsequent Subclass 482 short-term stream visa application may need to be applied for from outside Australia.

Visa Plan Migration Lawyers for 482 and 457 visa holders:

If you are a current or prospective Subclass 482 or 457 visa holder, we strongly suggest that you get in touch with our team to start planning your permanent residency pathway. Our expert migration solicitors will take time to understand your goals and circumstances to plan out the ideal migration pathway for both you and your family. If you are looking to seek professional advice, call us today on +61 3 9958 5854 or email us to book in a time at client@visaplan.au