Why Permanent Residency Is the Goal for Many 482 Visa Holders
The Subclass 482 visa, formerly known as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, has been replaced by the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa as of December 2024. This change reflects Australia's updated skilled migration strategy, introducing a three-tiered system designed to address labour market needs and provide clearer pathways to permanent residency (PR) for skilled workers.
Why Permanent Residency Is the Goal for Many SID (Former 482) Visa Holders
1. More Accessible and Structured PR Pathways
The SID visa introduces a three-tiered structure: Specialist Skills, Core Skills, and Essential Skills pathways. Each tier has distinct salary thresholds and occupation requirements. The tiered structure offers tailored pathways for different skill levels and industries, simplifying the process for SID (formerly 482) visa holders to qualify for permanent residency based on their occupation, salary, and work experience.
2. Reduced Work Experience Requirements
Unlike the previous subclass 482 visa requiring at least two years of relevant work experience, the SID visa reduces this to just one year. This change lowers barriers for skilled migrants to enter Australia and begin their pathway to PR soon.
3. Extended Job Mobility and Grace Period
SID visa holders now benefit from a 180-day grace period to find a new sponsor if their employment ends, compared to only 60 days under the old system. This flexibility reduces the risk of visa cancellation and supports career continuity, which is crucial for accumulating the work experience needed for PR eligibility.
4. Clearer and Faster PR Transition
The pathway to permanent residency has been streamlined. For example, under the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream, SID visa holders can apply for PR after completing two years of full-time employment in the same occupation in Australia, a reduction from the previous three-year requirement. Employment with multiple approved sponsors counts as long as it is continuous and on the same occupation.
5. Longer Visa Validity and Stability
The SID visa allows holders to stay in Australia for up to four years, providing greater stability than the older short-term streams. This longer duration supports workers in building a life and career in Australia while progressing toward PR.
-
Salary Threshold: A$135,000
Occupation List: No occupation list restrictions
PR Eligibility: PR after 3 years with same employer
Visa Validity: Up to 4 years
-
Salary Threshhold: A$73,150 – S$135,000
Occupation List: Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
PR Eligibility: PR after 2 years with sponsor
Visa Validity: Up to 4 years
-
Salary Threshhold: Under A$73,150
Occupation List: Sector-specific essential occupations
PR Eligibility: PPR pathway under development
Visa Duration: Up to 4 years
The transformation of the 482 visa into the Skills in Demand (SID) visa marks a significant shift in Australia’s skilled migration framework. For many visa holders, permanent residency remains the ultimate goal because it offers long-term security, unrestricted work rights, access to social benefits, and a pathway to citizenship. The new SID visa’s reduced experience requirements, extended job mobility, and clearer, faster PR pathways make achieving permanent residency more attainable and attractive for skilled workers committed to building their future in Australia.
🎓 Free Webinar: Secure Australian PR in Just 2 Years
Learn How to Transition from a 482 Visa to the 186 TRT Vis. If you are currently on a Subclass 482 (TSS) visa and planning to stay in Australia permanently, join our free expert-led webinar on Friday, 27 June 2025 at 2:00 PM (AEST) and discover how to transition from a temporary visa to Permanent Residency through the 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream — in just two years.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ The step-by-step process of moving from 482 to 186 TRT
✅ New eligibility rules and what they mean for your application
✅ Employer nomination requirements
✅ Common pitfalls to avoid and real success stories
✅ Live Q&A with registered migration agents
This is your chance to get expert insights and plan your PR journey with clarity and confidence.
Spaces are limited — secure your spot today!
