Look, the Temporary Skill Shortage visa is on its way out. The replacement is called the Skills in Demand visa, and it works nothing like the old system.
If you are a skilled worker or an employer thinking about sponsorship, this affects you directly.
Three Tiers Based on What You Earn
The new visa splits into three pathways. Your earnings determine which one applies.
Specialist Skills Pathway
Earning $135,000 or more? This is yours. No occupation list to worry about. You can work in almost any role except trades, machine operation, driving, and labouring positions.
Processing target: 7 days. That is not a typo.
Core Skills Pathway
This is where most skilled migrants will land. Your occupation needs to be on the new Core Skills Occupation List. Minimum earnings: $70,000 annually.
If you are currently on a 482 visa or thinking about employer sponsorship, pay attention to this one.
Essential Skills Pathway
Earning under $70,000 in an essential industry? This pathway is still being finalised. Expect tighter regulations and industry-specific requirements.
What Actually Changed
• Four-year visa term: All three streams offer up to four years
• 180 days between sponsors: Lose your job and you have six months to find a new employer. That breathing room did not exist before
• 21-day processing target: The government wants most applications decided in three weeks
• Clearer permanent residency routes: All streams now have defined pathways to PR
What This Means If You Are an Employer
The sponsorship process is changing. If you are planning to nominate a worker, you need to understand the new requirements before you lodge anything.
Getting this wrong costs time and money. Getting it right means faster processing and a clearer path for your employee.
What Should You Do Now
Work out which pathway applies to your occupation and earnings. If you are not sure where you fit, or if you are mid-application and wondering how this affects you, book a consultation.
The rules are changing. Make sure you are not playing by the old ones.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your specific circumstances, book a consultation.
