Understand the Core Skills Stream of Australia’s 482 visa—eligibility, occupation list, salary threshold, and step-by-step process, based on official guidelines.

Introduction

Australia’s Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa—Core Skills Stream—offers skilled professionals a direct route to work in high-demand roles. With over 450 eligible occupations and a rising minimum salary threshold, it’s vital to understand the latest official requirements to maximize your success.

Core Skills Stream: Overview and Key Features

The Core Skills Stream of the 482 visa is designed for skilled workers nominated by approved Australian employers to fill roles on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This stream supports Australia’s workforce needs outside the highly specialized sector.

Key features:

  • Up to 4 years’ visa validity
  • Pathway to permanent residency for eligible applicants
  • Option to include family members
  • Access to Medicare (if eligible)
  • Flexibility to change jobs within the CSOL, subject to sponsorship

Eligibility Criteria: What You Need to Qualify

To apply for the 482 visa Core Skills Stream, both the applicant and employer must meet strict criteria:

Applicant Requirements

  • Occupation: Must be nominated for a role on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
  • Skills & Experience: At least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time/casual) relevant work experience in the last 5 years.
  • Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment is required for many occupations.
  • English Language: Minimum IELTS score of 5.0 in each band (or equivalent test), unless exempt.
  • Salary: Salary must meet or exceed the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT)—AUD 76,515 from July 2025 (or the higher annual market salary rate).
  • Health & Character: Must meet Australian health and character requirements.

Employer Requirements

  • Approved Sponsor: Must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) with no adverse information.
  • Genuine Need: Must demonstrate a genuine need for the position and conduct Labour Market Testing (LMT).
  • Salary & Conditions: Must pay at least the CSIT or annual market salary rate, whichever is higher.
  • Ongoing Position: Position must be full-time and likely to be available for the duration of the visa.

Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL): Who Is Eligible?

The CSOL determines which occupations are eligible for the Core Skills Stream. As of July 2025, the list includes 456 occupations across sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, trades, and more. Examples include:

  • Registered Nurse
  • Software Engineer
  • Electrician
  • Chef
  • Accountant
  • Cyber Security Analyst

Tip: Always check the most current CSOL, as occupations may be added or removed based on labor market needs.

Salary Thresholds and Market Rate: What You Must Know

From July 2025, the minimum salary for Core Skills Stream applicants is AUD 76,515 (Core Skills Income Threshold, CSIT). Employers must pay either this threshold or the annual market salary rate, whichever is higher. This ensures overseas workers receive fair pay and protects local labor standards.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  1. Check Eligibility: Confirm your occupation is on the CSOL and you meet all requirements.
  2. Secure Sponsorship: Obtain a job offer from an approved Australian employer.
  3. Skills Assessment: Complete a positive skills assessment if required for your occupation.
  4. Gather Documentation: Prepare evidence of work experience, English proficiency, skills assessment, health, and character.
  5. Nomination by Employer: Employer lodges a nomination application, demonstrating genuine need and compliance with salary and sponsorship rules.
  6. Visa Application: Submit your visa application with all supporting documents.
  7. Await Decision: Processing times vary; monitor your application status and respond to any requests for further information.

Key Changes and Updates for 2025

  • CSIT Increase: The Core Skills Income Threshold rises to AUD 76,515 from July 2025.
  • Superannuation: The superannuation guarantee rate increases to 12% from July 2025.
  • Expanded Occupation List: The CSOL is regularly updated to reflect Australia’s evolving skills needs.

Conclusion

The 482 visa Core Skills Stream is a dynamic pathway for skilled professionals to work and build a future in Australia. By meeting the updated eligibility, occupation, and salary requirements, applicants can maximize their chances of success. Stay informed of official changes and consult the latest CSOL before applying.