Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa

(subclass 482)

Purpose

The TSS Visa allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by sponsoring skilled workers from overseas for up to four years. There are two main streams under this visa:

1. Short-Term Stream: For occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). This stream allows for up to two years of stay with the possibility of extension.

2. Medium-Term Stream: For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This stream allows for up to four years of stay and offers a pathway to permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria

• Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by an approved employer who is willing to provide a job offer in an eligible occupation.

• Occupation: The occupation must be on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (STSOL or MLTSSL).

• Skills: You need to demonstrate the required skills and qualifications for the occupation.

• English Proficiency: Depending on the occupation and stream, you might need to prove your English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

• Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements.

Application Procedures

Employer Nomination:

· Employer's Role: The Australian employer must first apply to become a standard business sponsor if they aren't already. They must also nominate the position they wish to fill.

· Nomination Requirements: The employer must demonstrate that they are offering a genuine, full-time position that meets the market salary rate and conditions.

Visa Application:

· Visa Applicant’s Role: Once the employer’s nomination is approved, you can apply for the TSS visa. The application can be submitted online through the ImmiAccount portal.

· Documents: You will need to provide documents like your passport, evidence of your qualifications and work experience, English language test results, and health and character clearances.

Processing Time: Processing times can vary based on the stream and complexity of the application. Typically, it takes several months, so planning ahead is crucial.

Visa Grant: If granted, you’ll receive a visa that specifies the length of stay and conditions. You must comply with visa conditions, such as working only for the sponsoring employer and in the nominated occupation.

In-Demand Professions

The demand for specific occupations can fluctuate, but here are some professions commonly in demand for TSS visas, especially in the Medium-Term Stream:

• Healthcare: Medical practitioners, nurses, and allied health professionals.

• Engineering: Civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and electrical engineers.

• IT: Software developers, ICT business analysts, and network administrators.

• Trades: Panel beaters, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.

• Education: Secondary school teachers and early childhood educators.

Note: The lists of in-demand occupations can change, so it’s important to check the latest Skilled Occupation Lists on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website or consult a migration agent for up-to-date information.

Additional Information

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Medium-Term Stream of the TSS visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa (subclass 187).

• Regional Opportunities: Regional areas often have additional incentives and lower competition for certain professions.

"For detailed and personalized advice, it’s often beneficial to consult IND AUS BUSINESS LINKS PTY LTD, which has an experienced immigration advising team with 18 years of experience to guide you through the complexities of the application process and requirements.