Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) is designed to help Australian businesses fill skilled positions when they cannot find qualified local workers. This visa allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for temporary employment in Australia. If you are a skilled professional looking to work in Australia, understanding the TSS visa process is crucial.

What is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa?

The TSS visa (Subclass 482) allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia for an approved employer. It was introduced to replace the 457 visa and aims to address skill shortages while ensuring that job opportunities for Australian workers are prioritized.

Types of TSS Visa Streams

There are three main streams under the TSS visa:

1. Short-Term Stream

• For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
• Valid for up to two years (or four years if an international trade obligation applies).
• Not eligible for permanent residency.
• Requires applicants to prove genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria.

2. Medium-Term Stream

• For occupations listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Valid for up to four years.
• Provides a pathway to permanent residency under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Subclass 187.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

• For workers sponsored under a labour agreement between an employer and the Australian government.
• Designed for employers who require skills not covered under standard occupation lists.

Eligibility Requirements for TSS Visa

To apply for a TSS visa, applicants must meet several requirements:

1. Employer Sponsorship

• Must be nominated by an Australian business approved as a sponsor.
• The employer must demonstrate that no suitable Australian workers are available for the role.

2. Occupation Requirement

• The job position must be on the STSOL or MLTSSL.
• The position must be genuine and meet market salary rates.

3. Work Experience

• Applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.

4. Skills and Qualifications

• Some occupations require a skills assessment from a recognized authority.
• Applicants must have the necessary qualifications and professional experience.

5. English Language Proficiency

• Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements, typically achieved through IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or equivalent tests.
• Exemptions apply for certain nationalities and occupations.

6. Health and Character Requirements

• Applicants must undergo a medical examination.
• Police clearance certificates are required to prove good character.

TSS Visa Application Process

Applying for a TSS visa involves three key steps:

Step 1: Employer Sponsorship Application

The employer must be an approved sponsor before they can nominate a foreign worker.

Step 2: Nomination Application

The employer nominates a specific position, providing evidence that it meets:

• Labour market testing (LMT) requirements.
• Market salary rate conditions.
• Genuine need for a skilled worker.

Step 3: Visa Application

Once the nomination is approved, the applicant submits their TSS visa application via the Department of Home Affairs website.

Processing Time for TSS Visa

The processing time for a TSS visa depends on the stream and individual circumstances:

• Short-Term Stream: 4-7 months.
• Medium-Term Stream: 4-6 months.
• Labour Agreement Stream: Varies based on agreement terms.

Cost of TSS Visa

The cost of a TSS visa depends on the stream and occupation:

• Short-Term Stream: AUD 1,455.
• Medium-Term Stream: AUD 3,035.
• Labour Agreement Stream: Varies.
• Additional fees apply for family members included in the application.

Can TSS Visa Holders Bring Their Family?

Yes, TSS visa holders can bring eligible family members, including:

• Spouse or de facto partner.
• Dependent children.
• Family members can live, work, and study in Australia.

Transitioning from TSS Visa to Permanent Residency

Certain TSS visa holders can apply for permanent residency through:

1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186

• Available to Medium-Term Stream TSS visa holders.
• Requires at least three years of work experience with the sponsoring employer.

2. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Subclass 187

• For TSS visa holders working in regional Australia.
• Requires employer sponsorship.

3. General Skilled Migration (GSM) Pathway

• Some skilled workers may apply for Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) after meeting criteria.

Common Reasons for TSS Visa Rejections

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation – Missing required documents can lead to delays or rejections.
2. Failure to Meet Skill or Experience Requirements – Ensure you have the necessary work experience and qualifications.
3. Not Meeting English Language Standards – Check if you need to take an English test.
4. Health or Character Concerns – Criminal records or medical conditions may impact approval.
5. Employer Non-Compliance – If the sponsoring employer fails to meet obligations, the application can be refused.

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) is a great opportunity for skilled workers to gain employment in Australia. Understanding the visa process, eligibility requirements, and employer obligations is essential for a successful application.

If you need expert assistance with your TSS visa application, Mahi Visa Services can guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and successful process.

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