The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa — subclass 482 — is Australia's most common employer-sponsored work visa. But unlike skilled independent visas, you need an approved employer to nominate you. Here's how the whole process works.

The Three-Step Process

Step 1: Employer Sponsorship

First, your employer must become an approved sponsor. They apply to the Department of Home Affairs and must demonstrate:

Step 2: Nomination

Once approved as a sponsor, the employer nominates a specific position for you. They must show:

  • The occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list (MLTSSL or STSOL)
  • The salary meets the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) — currently AUD $73,150/year
  • The position is genuine (not created just for the visa)
  • Labour market testing may be required for some occupations

    • Step 3: Visa Application

    Finally, you apply for the visa. You need:

    Finding a Sponsoring Employer

    This is the hardest part. Not all employers are sponsors, and many are selective about who they sponsor. Here are the most effective strategies:

    1. Check the Approved Sponsor List

    The Department of Home Affairs publishes a list of approved sponsors. Filter by industry and location to find potential employers.

    2. Target Industries With Labour Shortages

    Some industries have chronic skills shortages and sponsor more readily:

    3. Use Specialist Job Boards

    Some Australian job boards specifically list sponsor-ready positions:

    4. Direct Approaches

    For smaller businesses not on job boards, a direct approach can work. Research companies in your industry, find the HR manager, and send a targeted email explaining your skills, visa eligibility, and willingness to go through the sponsorship process.

    The Three Streams

    StreamDurationOccupation ListPR Pathway
    Short-Term2 years (1 renewal)STSOL onlyNo direct pathway
    Medium-Term4 years (renewable)MLTSSL + STSOLYes — via 186 after 3 years
    Labour AgreementVariesAgreement-specificCase-by-case

    Salary Requirements

    The TSMIT (minimum salary) is AUD $73,150/year as of 2024. This is the minimum — most sponsors pay above this to attract talent. Your salary must also be "market rate" for the role, meaning comparable to what an Australian would earn in the same position.

    Skills Assessment

    Not all occupations require a skills assessment, but many do. Common assessing authorities include:

    Apply for your skills assessment early — it can take 2–3 months.

    Common Reasons for 482 Refusal