On 7 December 2024, the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. If you’re an employer planning to sponsor a worker, or a worker hoping to be sponsored, here’s what changed.
Three streams instead of the old TSS streams
- Specialist Skills: most occupations, except trades, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers, where the salary meets the Specialist Skills Income Threshold.
- Core Skills: occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), where the salary meets the Core Skills Income Threshold.
- Labour Agreement: occupations covered by a labour agreement with the Australian Government.
Less work experience needed
Applicants need at least 1 year of relevant work experience in the last 5 years. Part-time or casual work counts if it adds up to 12 months of full-time work.
What happens to existing TSS visas?
TSS visas that were already granted stay valid until they expire. Home Affairs’ TSS information now only applies to people who were granted a TSS visa or applied on or before 6 December 2024.
Current income thresholds
For nominations lodged from 1 July 2026, the Core Skills Income Threshold is AUD79,423 and the Specialist Skills Income Threshold is AUD146,576.
Not sure which stream suits a role? Talk to us before you nominate, because the stream affects the salary, occupation and evidence you’ll need.
This article is general information, current at September 2026. It isn’t legal or migration advice. Check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with a registered migration agent before you act.
