We’ve all heard about the changes to the 457 visa. But now that those changes are at our doorstep, it’s highly recommended that all business owners and potential future business owners get up to speed on the ins and outs of the new replacement visa, and what that may mean for their business and their employees.
The highly anticipated changes to the 457 visa are now in place, with the TSS (Temporary Skills Shortage) visa stepping up to the plate to replace the 457, effective 18th March.
What is the TSS visa?
Otherwise known as the ‘Subclass 482’ visa, the TSS visa will comprise three streams:
- Short-term
Overseas workers that meet the requirements of a short-term TSS visa will be permitted to stay in Australia for a maximum of two years. This visa will not allow the visa holder to obtain permanent residency.
- Medium-term
Overseas workers that meet the requirements of a medium-term TSS visa will be permitted to stay in Australia for a maximum of four years. This visa may allow the visa holder to gain permanent residency after three years.
- Labour Agreement
This stream will allow skilled overseas workers to be employed under a labour agreement with the Commonwealth Government, granted that there is a specific need that cannot be met by the Australian labour market.
Important things to consider
- Unlike the original 457 visa, the TSS focuses on the skills of the overseas worker. If their skills and qualifications match those on the Short-term/Medium/Long-Term Skilled Occupation Lists, they will be potential candidates for one of the three TSS streams. However, if the overseas worker has been trained in an area that does not feature on this list, they will not qualify.
- The Skilled Occupation Lists may include a slightly broader spectrum of occupations in regional areas.
- Employers MUST pay the TSS visa holder the Annual Market Salary Rate and also meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold.
- Workers must have at least three years work experience in their field in order to qualify for a TSS visa in that same field.
- All applicants must be below the age of 45 at the time of application.
As always, we advise that you speak to a professional regarding all visa-related matters. We highly recommend our friends at Visa Solutions, who continually keep us up to speed with all necessary visa changes.