Skills in Demand (subclass 482)

This temporary visa lets an employer sponsor a suitably skilled worker to fill a position they cannot find a suitably skilled Australian to fill.

At a Glance

• Stay: Up to 4 years (Hong Kong passport holders up to 5 years)
• Visa cost: From AUD4,015.00 (Concessions apply in limited circumstances; from 1 July 2026 a lower cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. The pricing estimator does not include the second instalment or other costs.)

Who It Is For

• Have an approved sponsor and be nominated for the visa
• Core Skills stream: occupation is on the Core Skills Occupation List
• Specialist Skills stream: ANZSCO Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6 and nominated salary meets the Specialist Skills Income Threshold
• Labour Agreement stream: employer has a labour agreement in effect
• Subsequent entrant: family member of a subclass 457 or 482 primary holder

What You Can Do With This Visa

• Work in Australia for your sponsoring employer (temporary visa)
• Family members can apply as subsequent entrants

Good to Know

• Applications are prioritised under Ministerial Direction 121, so processing timeframes may change
• Sponsor and nomination are required
• Subsequent entrant stay lasts as long as the visa is valid

Getting Advice

Our registered migration agents can talk through your situation, explain whether this visa suits you and help you prepare. This page is general information only, summarised from the Department of Home Affairs and checked in November 2026. Fees and rules change, so always check the official page before you apply.