The Skills in Demand visa allows approved employers to sponsor eligible workers. The current visa includes Core Skills, Specialist Skills, and Labour Agreement streams.
Who this route suits
Skilled workers with a sponsoring Australian employer.
Core Skills stream
For workers in occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). Salary and English requirements apply. The employer must be an approved sponsor.
Specialist Skills stream
For highly paid specialist workers who earn above a higher income threshold. Fewer occupation restrictions apply but the income floor is significantly higher.
Labour Agreement stream
For workers being sponsored under a negotiated labour agreement. Used when standard sponsorship cannot meet an employer's specific workforce needs.
Pathway to permanent residence
Subclass 482 holders may be able to transition to permanent residence through Subclass 186 (ENS) after meeting the required period of employer-sponsored work.
Important to know
Identify the stream first, then review occupation, salary, skills, English, sponsorship, and nomination requirements.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Core Skills and Specialist Skills streams?
- Core Skills requires the occupation to be on the CSOL. Specialist Skills does not restrict by occupation list but requires meeting a higher salary threshold.
- Can my family come with me on a 482?
- Yes. Partners and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants. They may have permission to work and study.
Check before you apply. General information only. Requirements, fees, and occupation lists change. The relevant authority makes the final decision on every application. Confirm current requirements with Department of Home Affairs.
Related routes
Working in a regulated profession in Australia?
A visa does not give permission to practise a regulated profession. Registration is a separate process.