Australia offers various visa options for skilled workers, with the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (482) and the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) being two of the most popular. These visas are designed for different purposes, providing opportunities for both skilled workers and international students to live and work in Australia on a temporary basis.

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (482)

The 482 Visa, also known as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa, allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for roles in industries facing skill shortages.

1. Eligibility for the 482 Visa

1. Skilled Occupation: To qualify, applicants must have a job offer in a skilled occupation listed on one of the approved occupation lists (either the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) or the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)).
2. Employer Sponsorship: Applicants must be sponsored by an approved Australian employer, who must prove that they have made genuine efforts to hire Australian workers for the position.
3. Skills and Qualifications: Applicants must meet the specific qualifications and skills required for the role.
4. English Language Proficiency: A minimum level of English proficiency is necessary.
5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

2. Types of the 482 Visa

1. Short-term Stream: This stream is valid for up to 2 years and applies to those filling positions on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List.
2. Medium-term Stream: This stream is valid for up to 4 years and applies to those filling roles on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List. Applicants in this stream may have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after 3 years through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS).

3. Benefits

1. Stay in Australia for up to 4 years, depending on the occupation stream.
2. Potential pathway to permanent residency through programs like the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
3. Work for the sponsoring employer in a skilled role.

Temporary Graduate Visa (485)

The 485 Visa, also referred to as the Temporary Graduate Visa, is intended for international students who have completed their studies in Australia and wish to remain in the country to gain work experience.

1. Eligibility for the 485 Visa

Qualification: To be eligible, applicants must have successfully completed at least two years of study in Australia and obtained a degree, diploma, or trade qualification.

Visa Streams: The 485 Visa has two streams:

   Graduate Work Stream: For international students who have completed qualifications relevant to an occupation on Australia’s skilled occupation list.

   Post-Study Work Stream: For those who have completed a higher education degree (bachelor's degree or higher) in Australia.

English Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the required level of English.

Age: Applicants must be under the age of 50.

2. Duration of the 485 Visa

1. The Graduate Work Stream is usually valid for up to 18 months.
2. The Post-Study Work Stream can be valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the level of the qualification obtained.

3. Benefits

1. Stay in Australia to gain work experience after completing your studies.
2. The Post-Study Work Stream provides greater flexibility for graduates who want to extend their stay and gain valuable experience.
3. Potential for transitioning to permanent residency through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, provided relevant work experience is obtained.

Key Differences Between the 482 and 485 Visas

482 Visa (TSS):

1. For skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer.
2. Duration: 2 to 4 years, depending on the role.
3. Requires employer sponsorship.
4. Can lead to permanent residency (ENS or RSMS).

485 Visa (Temporary Graduate):

1. For international students who have recently graduated.
2. Duration: 18 months to 4 years, depending on the stream.
3. No employer sponsorship required.
4. Can lead to permanent residency after gaining work experience.

Which Visa is Right for You?

• If you are a skilled worker with a job offer from an Australian employer, the 482 Visa is likely the right choice for you. This visa lets you work in a skilled role and provides a potential pathway to permanent residency after gaining work experience.
• If you are a recent graduate of an Australian institution, the 485 Visa offers an opportunity to work in Australia and gain experience in your field. It also provides a potential pathway to permanent residency after gaining relevant experience.

Conclusion

Both the 482 and 485 visas offer valuable opportunities for those wishing to live and work in Australia temporarily. The visa that’s best for you depends on whether you're a skilled worker or a recent graduate. Understanding the eligibility requirements and the benefits of each visa type will help you make an informed decision about the best option for your situation.