Key Requirements for Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) Visa Applicants

27 Aug

The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) Visa is a critical pathway for overseas professionals looking to work in Australia and for employers seeking to address genuine skill shortages. However, applicants must meet both time of application and time of decision requirements, which differ from the older TSS 482 visa rules.

This article explains these requirements, highlighting the new rule that work experience must be met at the time of application—not at the time of decision.

Time of Application Requirements

1. Work Experience (New Requirement)

Under clause 482.221 (Specialist Skills stream) and 482.231 (Core Skills stream), primary applicants must have:

At least one year of full-time work experience (or equivalent) in the nominated occupation or a related field;
Completed this work within the five years before making their application.

⚠️ Key change: Unlike the previous TSS 482 visa, where applicants could count work experience up until the time of decision, SID visa applicants must meet this requirement at the time of lodgement. Voluntary or unpaid work cannot be counted.

Work experience may include relevant internships, apprenticeships, or clinical placements undertaken as part of a CRICOS-registered course (e.g., medical internships, Professional Year Program), provided it is at the appropriate skill level.

Time of Decision Requirements

2. Genuine Intention

Under subclause 482.212(2), applicants must show:

A genuine intention to perform their nominated occupation; and
That the position is genuine and not created solely to secure their visa.

If an applicant’s qualifications and employment history do not align with the nominated role, additional evidence may be requested, or the case may be referred to overseas posts for verification.

3. Skills, Qualifications and Experience

Decision makers must be satisfied that applicants have the required background, as set out in:

482.221(2) – Specialist Skills stream
482.231(2) – Core Skills stream
482.242A – Labour Agreement stream

This may involve providing:

Academic transcripts
A CV and detailed employment references
Skills assessment results (if mandatory)

Licensing and Registration

Medical practitioners must have their qualifications recognised and be eligible for registration in Australia at the time of decision.
Other occupations must comply with visa condition 8607, meaning applicants must obtain necessary licensing/registration before starting work, but not necessarily before visa grant.

ANZSCO Assessment

Applicants are assessed against ANZSCO requirements, focusing on relevant qualifications and whether they can perform the core elements of the occupation.

4. English Proficiency

Unless exempt, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency under LIN 24/099. Accepted tests include IELTS, OET, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge (CAE). Exemptions apply for certain nationalities, high-income earners, and those with extended English-based study.

5. Employment with Approved Sponsor

Applicants must work in their nominated occupation for the approved sponsor or associated entity. This ensures a direct employer-employee relationship.

6. Overseas Referrals

Where necessary, applications may be referred overseas to verify qualifications, employment references, or other claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When must I meet the one-year work experience requirement?
At the time of application. This is a key change from the previous TSS 482 visa.

2. Does unpaid or volunteer work count?
No. Only paid employment at the required skill level is recognised.

3. Can work placements during study count?
Yes, if they were part of a CRICOS-registered course and aligned with the nominated occupation.

4. Do I need a licence or registration before applying?
Only medical practitioners must show recognition before grant. Other applicants can obtain registration after grant but before starting work.

5. What happens if I don’t meet the English test requirement?
You must provide a valid score at the time of decision, unless exempt.

Final Thoughts

The Subclass 482 SID Visa has introduced stricter rules compared to the old TSS 482 program. While the required work experience has been reduced from two years to one year, there is now less flexibility in meeting this requirement, as it must be satisfied at the time of application. This makes it especially important to seek professional advice if:

Your qualifications are not directly aligned with your nominated occupation (e.g., a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field).
You lack clear or sufficient evidence of your work experience.

A migration professional can help you assess your eligibility, gather the right documentation, and avoid common pitfalls that could lead to visa refusal.

Need Help With Your 482 SID Visa Application?

At One Planet Migration, our team of experienced migration lawyers specialise in 482 visa applications. We can help you prepare the right evidence, avoid costly mistakes, and strengthen your case.

📞 Contact us today for a free discovery call and get expert advice tailored to your situation.

Simplifying Immigration, Connecting Humanity

Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.