482 Skills in Demand (SID) Visa
The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) visa allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill roles where suitable local candidates are not available.
This visa is commonly used when an employer already has a suitable worker, including:
- A current employee
- A candidate the employer has sourced independently
- A worker requiring a visa extension or renewal
To sponsor a worker, the employer must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor, nominate a genuine full-time position, and meet salary, occupation, and compliance requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
The process involves three key steps:
- Sponsorship approval (if not already approved)
- Nomination of the role with required Labour Market Testing (where applicable)
- Visa application for the worker
Employers must pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy, offer a salary that meets the minimum income threshold and market rate, and comply with ongoing sponsor obligations, including record-keeping and fair employment conditions.
The SID visa is typically granted for up to 4 years and can provide a pathway to permanent residency for eligible workers under visas such as the Subclass 186.
Eligibility
Employer Requirements
- Must be an approved Standard Business Sponsor (or eligible to become one)
- Role must be on an eligible SID occupation list
- Role must be full-time and genuine
- Salary must meet the minimum income threshold AND Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR)
- Labour Market Testing must be completed where required
- Must comply with sponsorship and employment obligations
Worker Requirements
- Relevant skills and work experience
- Meets English language requirements
- Meets health and character requirements
MINIMUM INCOME THRESHOLD (Effective 1 July 2026)
| Stream | Minimum Salary |
|---|---|
| Core Skills Stream (most trades & standard roles) | $79,423 per year |
| Specialist Skills Stream (high-income roles) | $146,576 per year |
Superannuation, bonuses and commissions do NOT count toward the minimum.
Salary must also meet the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR).
Get a quote
Request a cost estimate to become an approved business sponsor and hire skilled overseas workers.
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Speak with a Registered Migration Agent about business sponsorship requirements, eligibility, and next steps.
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Discuss your hiring needs and options for sourcing overseas workers.