TSS sponsorship refers to the process where an Australian employer sponsors a skilled overseas worker under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa program. Officially known as the Subclass 482 visa, the TSS visa allows approved employers to fill positions when qualified Australian workers are not available.
This guide explains what TSS sponsorship means, eligibility requirements, employer obligations, application steps, costs, common mistakes, and frequently asked questions.
Contents
What Is TSS Sponsorship?
TSS sponsorship is an employer-sponsored visa pathway that enables Australian businesses to hire skilled foreign workers temporarily. The visa replaced the former Subclass 457 visa and is designed to address labor shortages in key industries.
The program operates under three streams:
- Short-Term Stream – For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
- Medium-Term Stream – For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Labour Agreement Stream – For employers with a formal labour agreement with the Australian government.
TSS sponsorship involves three key stages: employer sponsorship approval, nomination of the position, and the worker’s visa application.
Who Is Eligible for TSS Sponsorship?
Employee Requirements
- Occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list
- At least 2 years of relevant work experience
- Relevant qualifications for the nominated role
- Meet English language requirements
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have adequate health insurance
Applicants under the medium-term stream may qualify for permanent residency pathways after meeting residency requirements.
Occupation Requirements
- The job must be genuine and full-time
- The salary must meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)
- The position must align with the ANZSCO occupation description
Employer Requirements for TSS Sponsorship
Not every company can sponsor under the TSS visa. Employers must first become approved Standard Business Sponsors.
- Operate a legally established and actively trading business
- Demonstrate genuine need for the nominated position
- Meet Labour Market Testing requirements
- Offer salary at or above market rate
- Comply with Australian workplace laws
Employers must also pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy and comply with ongoing sponsorship obligations.
TSS Sponsorship Process Step-by-Step
Step 1: Employer Becomes an Approved Sponsor
The business applies for Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) approval. Once approved, sponsorship is generally valid for five years.
Step 2: Nomination of the Position
- Identify the correct occupation code
- Demonstrate Labour Market Testing
- Confirm salary meets market standards
- Pay nomination fees and SAF levy
Step 3: Visa Application
The overseas worker applies for the TSS Subclass 482 visa, submitting:
- Proof of qualifications
- Evidence of work experience
- English test results
- Health examinations
- Police clearance certificates
Applications are lodged online and processing times vary depending on the stream and occupation.
Costs of TSS Sponsorship
Employer Costs
- Sponsorship application fee
- Nomination fee
- Skilling Australians Fund levy
- Migration agent fees (if applicable)
Employee Costs
- Visa application fee
- Health checks
- English language testing
- Police certificates
- Health insurance
Costs vary depending on the stream, length of stay, and whether family members are included in the application.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Under the medium-term stream, TSS visa holders may become eligible for permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after meeting required employment duration and other criteria.
This pathway makes TSS sponsorship attractive for skilled workers seeking long-term settlement in Australia.
Common Mistakes in TSS Sponsorship Applications
- Choosing the wrong ANZSCO occupation code
- Failing Labour Market Testing requirements
- Salary below market rate
- Incomplete employment references
- Incorrect English test scores
- Delays in health or character documentation
Ensuring documentation aligns with Department of Home Affairs requirements significantly improves approval chances.
FAQs About TSS Sponsorship
How long does TSS sponsorship last?
The Short-Term stream allows up to 2 years (or 4 years if an international trade obligation applies). The Medium-Term stream allows up to 4 years.
Can TSS visa holders change employers?
Yes, but the new employer must lodge a new nomination before the employee can start work.
Is Labour Market Testing mandatory?
In most cases, yes. Employers must show they advertised the position locally before sponsoring a foreign worker.
Can family members be included?
Yes. Eligible family members can be included and may have work and study rights in Australia.
Is TSS sponsorship a direct green card equivalent?
No. It is a temporary visa, though certain streams may lead to permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
TSS sponsorship is a structured employer-sponsored visa pathway that allows Australian businesses to address genuine skill shortages while giving skilled foreign workers an opportunity to work in Australia legally.
Both employers and applicants must meet strict requirements, particularly around occupation eligibility, salary thresholds, and documentation. When properly managed, the TSS visa can serve as a stepping stone to long-term residency and career growth in Australia.
Understanding eligibility, compliance obligations, and the correct application process is essential to securing approval under the Temporary Skill Shortage visa program.