Learn how to secure the TSS 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa. Step-by-step process, eligibility, required documents, and key tips for employer sponsorship.
TSS (482) Temporary Skill Shortage Visa – Step-by-Step Guide
The TSS 482 visa is a vital pathway for skilled professionals seeking to work in Australia. This employer-sponsored visa allows Australian businesses to fill urgent skill gaps with overseas talent. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to the Temporary Skill Shortage visa process, eligibility, and requirements.
Step 1: Find an Eligible Employer and Confirm Occupation
To start, you must secure a job offer from an Australian employer who is willing and eligible to sponsor you. The position must be on the TSS visa occupation list, which includes both the Short-Term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL) and the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Key Points:
- Your employer must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor or have a Labour Agreement.
- The job must be genuine and full-time.
- You must have at least one year of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation (as of 2025).
Step 2: Employer Applies for Sponsorship
If your employer is not already an approved sponsor, they must apply for Standard Business Sponsorship through the Department of Home Affairs. This demonstrates their commitment to fair hiring practices and compliance with Australian laws.
Employer Requirements:
- Operate a legally established business in Australia.
- Demonstrate a genuine need for the role (Labour Market Testing).
- Pay the market salary or the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), currently set at AUD 73,150.
- Pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy.
Step 3: Employer Submits Nomination Application
Once sponsorship is approved, your employer nominates you for a specific position. The nomination includes job details, salary, and proof that no suitable Australian worker is available.
Nomination Details:
- Position title and description
- Salary and employment conditions
- Evidence of Labour Market Testing (if required)
- Occupation must match the TSS visa occupation list
Step 4: Prepare and Submit Your 482 Visa Application
After nomination approval, you can apply for the Temporary Skill Shortage visa online via ImmiAccount. You’ll need to gather and upload all required documents.
Required Documents:
- Proof of identity (passport)
- Skills and qualifications evidence
- Work experience documents
- English language test results (TSS visa English requirement)
- Health insurance
- Police certificates and character documents
All non-English documents must be translated and uploaded in colour. Australian translations must be by accredited translators; overseas translations must include the translator’s details.
Family Inclusion:
You may include your partner and dependent children in your application, provided they meet health and character requirements. Note that family members may have work restrictions depending on the stream.
Step 5: Health, Character, and Additional Checks
You and any family members must meet health and character requirements. This may involve medical exams and police clearances from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years.
Step 6: Wait for Processing and Decision
The 482 visa processing time varies by stream and application complexity. As of 2025, most applications are processed within 4–9 weeks after complete submission, though times can vary.
| Stream | 50% Processed Within | 90% Processed Within |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term | 4 weeks | 8 weeks |
| Medium-Term | 5 weeks | 9 weeks |
| Labour Agreement | Varies | Varies |
You’ll receive an email notification with your visa grant details if approved.
TSS 482 Visa Streams Explained
- Short-Term Stream: Up to 2 years (renewable once onshore). For occupations on the STSOL.
- Medium-Term Stream: Up to 4 years. For occupations on the MLTSSL, with a pathway to permanent residency.
- Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored under a specific Labour Agreement between the employer and the government.
Benefits of the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa
- Work full-time in Australia for your sponsoring employer
- Bring eligible family members
- Opportunity to transition to permanent residency (mainly via the Medium-Term stream)
- Gain Australian work experience in high-demand sectors
Conclusion
The TSS 482 visa is the leading employer-sponsored option for skilled workers aiming to build a career in Australia. By following this step-by-step process and ensuring all requirements are met, you can maximize your chances of a successful application.
