Further relaxations have been implemented for 482 and 457 visa holders allowing greater access for temporary skilled workers who remained in Australia throughout the pandemic.
482 visa holders in the short-term stream can now apply for the third time
From 1 July 2022, Temporary Skilled Shortage (subclass 482) visa holders on the Short-term skilled occupation list (STSOL) will be able to apply for a third subclass 482 onshore without departing Australia, where they:
- Were in Australia as the holder of a subclass 482 visa in the Short-term stream for periods that total at least 12 months between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021; and
- Make that further application before 1 July 2023 unless the Minister specifies a later date.
Age exemption concession for legacy 457 visa holders
From 1 July 2022, the Government will lift the age cap for legacy 457 workers. This means that legacy 457 workers will continue to have a pathway to permanent residency under transitional arrangements despite not meeting the age restrictions.
A legacy 457 worker for a subclass 186 visa is defined as a person who:
- Held a subclass 457 visa on or after 18 April 2017; and
- Was in Australia for at least 12 months before 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021.
This includes any period of reduced or unpaid leave due to COVID. Please see here for details on the TSS visa.
What is a Temporary Skills Shortage visa
This visa allows you to work in Australia with an Australian business and depending on your occupation, can be a pathway towards permanent residency.
Three stages are involved to be eligible for a 482 visa:
- Sponsorship – The Australian business has a valid sponsorship in place
- Nomination – The nomination application by the Australian business is approved
- Visa – You hold the relevant qualifications, work experience and English competency
Depending on your occupation, this visa allows you to live and work in Australia for 2 years or 4 years.
If your occupation is eligible, you may have a pathway towards permanent residency under the Employer Nomination Scheme.