Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and Employer Nomination Scheme in Australia

The Australian Government is rolling out major updates to the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) and the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186). These changes, effective from November 25, 2023, aim to streamline the path to permanent residency for TSS visa holders, helping Australia attract and retain top global talent.

Let’s break down what these updates mean for employers and skilled migrants.

Changes to Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)

Removal of Application Limits:

• The cap on the number of Short-term stream TSS visa applications made within Australia will be removed.
• Applies to new TSS visa applications lodged on or after November 25, 2023.

Impact on Current Visa Holders:

• Those whose visas expire before the change will need to apply for a third short-term stream TSS visa outside Australia.

Updates to Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) TRT Stream

Nomination Requirements:

• Employers can nominate holders of all TSS visa streams, including Short-term and Labour Agreement streams.
• The skilled migration occupation list requirement will be dropped; occupations just need to be listed in ANZSCO.
• The work period requirement will reduce to 2 out of the 3 years before nomination.

Visa Application Changes:

• Age exemptions will be updated for regional medical practitioners and high-income earners over 45, creating a 2-year pathway to permanent residency.
• Outdated COVID-19-related age exemptions will be discontinued.

OccuSearch: The Essential Migration Planning Tool

Navigating Australia’s migration landscape can be complex, but OccuSearch simplifies the process. This tool helps migrants match their skills with in-demand occupations in Australia, ensuring they align with visa requirements under ANZSCO classifications.

Whether you’re exploring pathways to permanent residency or seeking the best visa options, OccuSearch acts as a career planner and migration guide, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and improve your visa success chances.

Download the app: Android | iOS

Final Thoughts

These visa changes mark a pivotal shift towards a more accessible permanent residency pathway for TSS visa holders. As part of broader skilled visa reforms, they reflect the Government’s commitment to building a diverse and skilled workforce in Australia.For expert guidance on navigating these changes, reach out to Visa Home — your trusted partner in Australian migration success.