The new ‘Skills in Demand’ Visa, introduced in May 2025, replaces the Subclass 482 Visa and introduces a tiered system designed to better align skilled migration with labour market needs. This change creates clearer pathways to permanent residency and increases transparency for both employers and applicants.
Australia’s immigration framework is experiencing a major overhaul, with the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) Visa now being phased out. As of May 2025, the federal government introduced the new ‘Skills in Demand’ Visa, which marks a significant shift in how skilled workers are brought into the country. This reform is part of a broader effort to modernise the skilled migration system and make it more responsive to real-time labour market needs.
The Skills in Demand Visa introduces a tiered structure that better aligns with current workforce demands. It is designed to ensure that roles in high-need industries are filled quickly and fairly, while also promoting transparency in employer obligations and applicant eligibility. With defined salary thresholds and more dynamic occupation updates, the system offers greater clarity and flexibility than the rigid 482 Visa scheme.
These changes are particularly important for regional visa holders and skilled workers whose current permits may soon expire. Many are now reassessing their options, including pathways like the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, which continues to be a viable route to permanent residency. The updated visa structure also presents new opportunities for employers across various industries to attract and retain skilled talent, provided they meet the new sponsorship requirements.
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The Skills in Demand Visa, introduced in May 2025, has replaced the Subclass 482 Visa as part of Australia’s updated skilled migration strategy. It features a three-tiered framework designed to better align skilled migration with labour market demands:
To be eligible for any tier, applicants must meet the required salary threshold and hold a job offer from an approved sponsor. Jobs and Skills Australia advises on occupation eligibility, moving away from the rigid occupation lists previously used under the Subclass 482 Visa.
In addition to meeting salary and job requirements, applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency. Employers must also meet stricter compliance and reporting standards. The goal is to attract skilled workers where they are most needed, offering a more structured skilled visa route that also streamlines access to permanent residency.
These reforms are especially important for current visa holders in regional areas whose permits are nearing expiry. While the changes offer new opportunities, they also introduce stricter requirements. Employees must meet clearer but more rigorous conditions for permanent residency. Employers, in turn, need to ensure that job roles comply with new criteria and salary benchmarks.
Without expert guidance, applicants risk making avoidable mistakes such as incomplete forms, missed deadlines, or misunderstanding nomination requirements. Legal professionals reduce these risks and help ensure compliance with current immigration laws.
Working with a qualified immigration lawyer helps ensure that your application is accurate and aligned with the latest legislative updates. A legal expert can streamline the process, reduce the risk of delays, and improve your chances of success.
At CMI Legal, we have years of experience handling skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas. We assist with every step—from eligibility checks to final application—while staying up to date with policy reforms. Our aim is to make the process easier and more effective for both individuals and businesses.
The May 2025 introduction of the Skills in Demand Visa marks a turning point in Australia’s skilled migration framework. While the new system offers greater opportunities, it also introduces more complex requirements. Staying informed and acting early is essential. CMI Legal is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your application is strong, compliant, and submitted on time. Secure your future—contact CMI Legal today and get the professional guidance you need for a successful visa application.
The Skills in Demand Visa is a new employer-sponsored visa introduced in May 2025 to replace the Subclass 482 Visa. It features a tiered structure based on occupation demand and salary thresholds to better match Australia’s labour market needs.
To be eligible, you must have a job offer from an approved sponsor, meet the minimum salary threshold for your tier, possess relevant skills and qualifications, and demonstrate English language proficiency.
Unlike the 482 Visa, the Skills in Demand Visa uses a three-tiered system with updated occupation criteria, real-time labour market data, higher salary thresholds, and a streamlined path to permanent residency.
Tier 1 (Specialist Skills Pathway) requires a minimum salary of $135,000 per year, and Tier 2 (Core Skills Pathway) requires $70,000. Tier 3 is still under development and will focus on essential support roles.
Yes, the Skills in Demand Visa offers a clearer and faster pathway to permanent residency, particularly for Tier 1 and Tier 2 applicants who meet the eligibility and sponsorship requirements.
All Skills in Demand Visa holders will be granted a uniform four-year stay, providing more stability and clarity than the previous Subclass 482 Visa, which varied based on occupation type.
Yes, employers must meet stricter compliance standards, including offering appropriate salaries, ensuring roles align with updated occupational guidelines, and maintaining sponsorship obligations.
Explore 2025 updates to employer-sponsored visas in Australia. Learn about new salary thresholds, occupation lists, and sponsorship rules.
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These reforms are especially important for current visa holders in regional areas whose permits are nearing expiry. While the changes offer new opportunities, they also introduce stricter requirements. Employees must meet clearer but more rigorous conditions for permanent residency. Employers, in turn, need to ensure that job roles comply with new criteria and salary benchmarks.
Without expert guidance, applicants risk making avoidable mistakes such as incomplete forms, missed deadlines, or misunderstanding nomination requirements. Legal professionals reduce these risks and help ensure compliance with current immigration laws.
Our expert migration lawyers offer paid consultations to suit your needs—choose a quick 15-minute session for general advice or a comprehensive 45-minute session for in-depth discussion and tailored guidance.
