If you are researching the employer sponsored visa 482, this guide explains eligibility requirements, sponsorship obligations, occupation lists, and how the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa works in Australia.
The employer sponsored visa 482 allows Australian businesses to sponsor skilled foreign workers when they cannot find suitably qualified Australian citizens or permanent residents for the role.
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What Is the Employer Sponsored Visa 482?
The employer sponsored visa 482, also known as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, enables approved employers to fill labour shortages by hiring overseas workers in nominated occupations.
This visa replaced the former Subclass 457 visa and includes stricter compliance and labour market testing requirements.
Visa Streams
The employer sponsored visa 482 has three primary 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 negotiated labour agreement with the Australian Government
The stream determines visa duration and potential pathways to permanent residency.
Employer Requirements
To sponsor a worker under the employer sponsored visa 482, businesses must:
- Be an approved Standard Business Sponsor
- Conduct Labour Market Testing (LMT)
- Nominate an eligible skilled occupation
- Offer salary at or above the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)
- Meet training and compliance obligations
Employers must also pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy.
Employee Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have a valid job offer from an approved sponsor
- Possess skills and qualifications relevant to the nominated occupation
- Meet English language requirements
- Have at least two years of relevant work experience
- Meet health and character requirements
Some occupations may require formal skills assessment.
Duration of Stay
The employer sponsored visa 482 is generally granted for:
- Up to 2 years (Short-Term Stream)
- Up to 4 years (Medium-Term Stream)
- Up to 4 years under Labour Agreements
Certain streams may provide a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme.
Costs Involved
Costs associated with the employer sponsored visa 482 may include:
- Visa application fee
- Nomination fee (paid by employer)
- Skilling Australians Fund levy (employer)
- Medical examinations
- Police clearance certificates
Employers are responsible for specific sponsorship-related charges under Australian law.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Workers in the Medium-Term stream may become eligible for permanent residency after meeting employment and residency requirements. Eligibility depends on occupation eligibility and ongoing sponsorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change employers on a 482 visa?
You must obtain a new nomination and visa approval before working for a different employer.
Is English required?
Yes. Applicants must meet minimum English language standards unless exempt.
Does this visa guarantee permanent residency?
No. Permanent residency eligibility depends on stream and future application under relevant visa subclasses.
Final Thoughts
The employer sponsored visa 482 provides a structured pathway for skilled workers to live and work in Australia temporarily. Understanding employer obligations, occupation lists, and compliance requirements significantly improves approval chances.