At $2,770, the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) is the 58th-cheapest of the 64 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $545 median. Its 3.5-month average processing time ranks it 43rd-fastest, quicker than 33% of the others.
What is the Skills in Demand (subclass 482)?
The Skills in Demand (subclass 482) is Australia's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 2 years. Employer-sponsored temporary work visa for skilled workers, which replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage visa in December 2024. Bridge to permanent residency.
Processing takes 2–5 months. The government fee is ≈ US$2,770, and the visa is valid for 4 years. Employer sponsorship is required. You must have a qualifying job offer before applying.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a Bachelor's degree and 1+ years of skilled work experience, along with a recognised language test result.
Weighing Australia against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
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What are the requirements for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482)?
A minimum Bachelor's degree, 1+ years of relevant work experience, a qualifying job offer from a Australia employer, a recognised language test result.
| Minimum education | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Work experience | 1+ years |
| Job offer required | Yes |
| Language test | Required |
official sources: SID 482 · immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 2 years.
Validity period
4 years (tied to employer)
Employer sponsorship required
You need a qualifying employer to sponsor your application.
How do you apply for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482)?
- 01
Complete a language test
Book and sit a recognised English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent). Scores are typically valid for two years, so time this carefully against your intended application date.
- 02
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in Australia willing to sponsor your SID 482 application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements.
- 03
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum Bachelor's degree), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 04
Submit your SID 482 application
File online through the official Australia immigration portal and pay the government fee of ≈ US$2,770. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 05
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 06
Receive decision (2–5 months)
Standard processing takes 2–5 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
How much does the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) cost?
The government application fee for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) is ≈ US$2,770. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) take to process?
Processing time for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) is typically 2–5 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Australia immigration website for current processing times before applying.
Does the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Skills in Demand (subclass 482) is one of the pathways to permanent residence in Australia. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 2 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply, so consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482)?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying Australia employer is required before you can apply for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482). The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.
Can a foreigner get a job in Australia?
Yes. With a job offer, an employer can sponsor you on the 482. After about 2 years with that employer, they can nominate you for the permanent 186 visa. British, American, Canadian, New Zealander and Irish citizens skip the English test. Without a job offer, the points-tested visas are the other way in, and people up to 30 from partner countries can use a working holiday visa.
Is 40 too old to move to Australia?
No. Age only limits the points-tested visas (SC 189, SC 190): you must be under 45 when invited, and at 40 to 44 you score 15 age points instead of the top 30 at 25 to 32. The employer-sponsored 482 sets no age limit in our data, so a job offer is the usual route from your forties on.