Skills In Demand Visa (SIDV)

The Australian Government is introducing a new ‘Skills in Demand’ visa, set to replace the current Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This change is part of a broader effort to better align immigration policies with Australia’s evolving labor market needs. According to the Department of Home Affairs, these updates will be implemented by the end of 2024.

The new visa system will feature a three-tier structure aimed at attracting highly skilled professionals, offering clearer paths to permanent residency, and providing more flexibility for visa holders. Below, we’ve outlined the key details of the new visa system to help you understand how it will work.

Key Features of the New ‘Skills in Demand’ Visa:

Three Tiers Based on Occupation and Earnings:

– The visa will be valid for up to four years and provide a clear pathway to permanent residency.

Tier 1 – Specialist Skills Stream

– For highly skilled workers earning a salary of A$135,000 or more annually, across any occupation (excluding trades, machine operators, drivers, and labourers).

– No Occupation List will apply to this stream.

– Offers a direct pathway to permanent residency with expedited processing.

Tier 2 – Core Skills Pathway

– This tier mirrors the current 482 TSS Visa.

– Open to individuals earning a salary above the minimum Core Skills Income Threshold (up to A$135,000).

– A new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) will be introduced, managed by Jobs and Skills Australia (currently under development).

– The list of eligible occupations for sponsorship is still being finalized.

Tier 3 – Labour Agreement Stream

– For sponsored workers in roles earning under A$70,000.

– Likely to focus on sectors such as aged care, disability support, and essential services.

(Possible) Key Changes and Updates:

1. Extended Visa Validity: Each visa will be valid for up to four years, offering more stability and enabling workers to change employers more freely.

2. Pathway to Permanent Residency: The new system simplifies the path to permanent residency, with priority processing for higher-tier applicants.

3. Labour Market Testing (LMT): Current LMT requirements, such as mandatory job advertising, could be phased out, reducing administrative burden for employers.

4. Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Adjustments: SAF payments may shift to a monthly or quarterly model, offering businesses greater flexibility when hiring skilled migrants and switching employers.

Why This Matters:

The new ‘Skills in Demand’ visa is designed to improve Australia’s ability to attract and retain skilled talent. The focus on flexibility, efficiency, and fairness aims to create a more straightforward and supportive migration process for both employers and skilled workers.

How Crossing Borders Migration Can Assist:

At Crossing Borders, we are committed to guiding you through the changes. Whether you’re an employer looking to sponsor skilled workers or a professional aiming for permanent residency, our team of experts will help you navigate the new visa system with confidence.

Book a Free Discovery Call: If you’re an Australian employer with a solid job offer for an international worker, or a skilled professional ready to take the next step, get in touch with us today.

We are here to help you achieve your Australian migration goals.