Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482)
The Skills in Demand (482) visa lets an approved Australian employer sponsor a skilled worker when the position cannot be filled locally. It is a temporary visa, and many holders later move to a permanent visa through their employer.
Reviewed by Arun Padmani, MARN 2418630 · Government charges checked November 2026Who it is for
- A skilled worker who has a job offer from an approved Australian sponsor.
- An employer that cannot find a suitable local worker for a skilled position.
Main requirements for the worker
- The occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) for the Core Skills stream.
- At least 1 year of experience in the occupation or a related field.
- The salary must meet the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) and must not be below the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT).
- English language ability, unless you are exempt.
- A skills assessment, if one is required for your occupation.
- Health and character requirements.
Things to know
- You can usually work only for your sponsor, unless an exemption applies. Speak to us before you change jobs.
- The employer must be an approved sponsor and must nominate the position. Sponsorship, nomination and levy charges are separate from the visa charge.
- Many 482 holders later apply for the Employer Nomination Scheme (186) visa. The usual route needs about 2 years of sponsored work first.
Government visa application charge
| Visa | Charge (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Skills in Demand (482), main applicant | $4,015 |
| Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT), from 1 July 2026 | $79,423 |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT), from 1 July 2026 | $146,576 |
Sponsorship, nomination and levy charges are separate. The income thresholds apply to Skills in Demand (482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (186) applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026.
Common questions
Is the 482 a permanent visa?
No. It is temporary. A later permanent visa, such as the 186, may be possible if you meet its requirements.
Do I need a skills assessment?
Only if your occupation requires one. We check this first.
Can my family come with me?
Usually yes. Eligible family members can be included in the application. Tell us who is coming and we will confirm.
Employer or employee?
We help employers become approved sponsors and nominate positions, and we help workers prepare their own applications.
Book a consultationArun Padmani, MARN 2418630All employer sponsored visas
Read the guide →Skills assessment
Most occupations need a positive assessment before you apply. We help you choose the authority and prepare.
Read the guide →