Are people with a 482 visa (TSS) in Australia eligible to apply for a PR?
Temporary Skill Shortage visa known as the 482 visa permits persons who possess certain skills to live and work in Australia for an approved employer. However, many visa holders consider the possibility to change from this temporary visa to permanent visa (PR). It is, however, possible for TSS visa holders to undertake this task through clear eligibility and of various processes and procedures.
Overview of the 482 Visa
The 482 visa was introduced to address skill shortages in Australia by allowing employers to bring in foreign workers when they cannot find suitable candidates locally. The visa is divided into three streams:
1. Short-Term Stream: Allows workers to stay in Australia for up to two years (four years if an International Trade Obligation applies) in occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
2. Medium-Term Stream: Allows workers to stay for up to four years in occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
3. Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored by employers under a labour agreement with the Australian government.
Pathways to Permanent Residency for 482 Visa Holders
There are primarily two pathways for TSS visa holders to transition to permanent residency:
1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186):
· Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream: This is the most preferred route for 482 visa holders. For this, an applicant must have worked for their employer on the 482 visa and in the same occupational position for at least 3 years. Your employer must then sponsor you for PR under the ENS visa.· If you do not meet this three-year work requirement, then the Direct Entry Stream may be something for you. This stream expects a qualification in your field of work and not less than three years of experience in the same profession though not necessarily in Australia.
