Your Ultimate Guide to ENS 482 Visa in Australia (2025): Everything You Must Know
Are you an Australian employer struggling to find skilled workers locally? Or are you a talented overseas professional eyeing long-term work and residency in Australia? The ENS 482 visa, officially known as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, might be your perfect pathway. This comprehensive article breaks down everything you need to know about the ENS 482 visa, from types and eligibility to employer obligations and permanent residency transition.
7/27/20254 min read
What Is the ENS 482 Visa?
The ENS 482 visa (Temporary Skill Shortage visa) is a work visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers from overseas to fill jobs they can’t fill locally. It’s designed to address genuine skill shortages and ensures that Australian businesses can access international talent without disadvantaging local job seekers.
This visa offers a temporary residence and work right for up to four years, depending on the occupation and stream. It also includes pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for eligible applicants.
Different Types of ENS 482 Visa Streams
The TSS 482 visa has three main streams, each designed to meet different labour needs:
1. Short-Term Stream
For occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Valid for up to 2 years (or up to 4 years if an International Trade Obligation applies).
Renewable only once onshore (in most cases).
Not a direct pathway to PR.
2. Medium-Term Stream
For occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Allows stays of up to 4 years.
Renewable and provides a pathway to PR after 2 years of full-time work.
3. Labour Agreement Stream
For employers with a Labour Agreement with the Australian Government.
Tailored to specific needs of sectors with chronic skill shortages.
Duration and PR eligibility depend on the terms of the agreement.
Eligibility Criteria for ENS 482 Visa
To qualify for the ENS 482 visa, both the employer and the applicant must meet certain requirements
For the Applicant:
Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
Have at least 2 years of full-time work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related field.
Meet the English language requirement:
Short-Term: IELTS 5.0 overall, minimum 4.5 in each band.
Medium-Term: IELTS 5.0 overall, minimum 5.0 in each band.
Hold relevant skills assessment (if required).
Have no significant health or character issues.
For the Employer
Be a lawfully operating business in Australia.
Demonstrate a genuine need for the role and efforts to recruit locally.
Sponsor and nominate the overseas worker.
Pay the Skilled Migration Levy (SAF).
How Many Years of Work Experience Are Required?
Applicants must have a minimum of two years of full-time work experience in the occupation (or a closely related field). This experience must be within the last five years and must be relevant to the position being filled in Australia
Employer Expenses and Obligations
Employers must meet several financial and legal obligations when sponsoring a worker under the ENS 482 program:
1. Sponsorship Costs:
Standard business sponsorship application: ~$420
Nomination application fee: ~$330
Visa application fee (primary applicant):
Short-Term Stream: ~$1,455
Medium-Term Stream: ~$3,035
SAF Levy:
Businesses with turnover < $10M: $1,200/year per worker
Businesses with turnover ≥ $10M: $1,800/year per worker
2. Other Employer Obligations:
Ensure non-discriminatory recruitment practices.
Pay the employee at market salary rates.
Keep accurate records and comply with sponsorship monitoring.
Provide equivalent terms and conditions as Australian workers.
Benefits of the ENS 482 for Employers
The ENS 482 visa is a powerful tool for Australian businesses looking to scale or sustain their operations. Here’s how:
Access to global talent when local skills are in short supply.
Boost business growth through the addition of highly skilled specialists.
Improve productivity and innovation with diverse perspectives.
Potential tax deductions for employer-sponsored migration costs.
Enhanced ability to meet contractual and project deadlines in technical fields.
Why ENS 482 Is a Win-Win for Employers and Employees
In high-demand sectors where domestic workforce availability is limited, the ENS 482 offers a practical and beneficial solution:
For employers: It’s a lifeline to find talent without business interruption.
For employees: It provides a legal and professional entry point into the Australian labour market with potential pathways to permanent residency.
Together, it supports labour market balance, ensuring Australia stays globally competitive without ignoring local workforce interests.
Top 7 Business Sectors That Benefit from ENS 482
Certain industries are particularly well-placed to benefit from the 482 program due to persistent labour shortages:
Healthcare and Aged Care (e.g., nurses, aged care workers)
Construction and Infrastructure (e.g., civil engineers, electricians)
IT and Cybersecurity (e.g., software engineers, ICT security specialists)
Agriculture and Farming (e.g., machinery operators, technicians)
Hospitality and Tourism (e.g., chefs, hotel managers)
Education and Childcare (e.g., early childhood educators)
Manufacturing and Trades (e.g., metal fabricators, welders)
The Importance of Skilled Trades to Australia’s Econom
Skilled trades are the backbone of Australia’s economy. From building homes and roads to maintaining healthcare systems, these professionals drive infrastructure, innovation, and productivity
However, Australia continues to face critical shortages in skilled trades, particularly in regional and remote areas. Programs like the ENS 482 play a vital role in plugging these gaps, ensuring projects are completed and essential services remain uninterrupted.
When Can a 482 Visa Holder Apply for PR?
A key benefit of the Medium-Term Stream of the 482 visa is the pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
Eligibility for PR (Subclass 186 – TRT Stream):
Hold a 482 visa under the medium-term stream.
Work in the same occupation and with the same employer for at least 2 out of the last 3 years.
Employer must nominate you for a permanent position.
Meet age (under 45), English, and skills requirements (some exceptions apply).
New 2024-2025 Update:
Starting late 2023 and into 2024, the 2-year PR pathway has been extended to more 482 visa holders, including some short-term stream occupations, depending on sector and employer location. Always check the latest policy updates from the Department of Home Affairs.
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider ENS 482?
The ENS 482 visa is one of the most practical and strategic work visa pathways available today in Australia. Whether you’re an employer looking to scale or a skilled worker seeking opportunities in a vibrant economy, the 482 program offers a structured and beneficial solution.
✅ Employers gain access to global skills.
✅ Workers receive a pathway to settle and grow their careers.
✅ Australia strengthens its workforce and economic resilience.
If you’re considering applying, make sure to consult a registered migration agent or legal expert to ensure full compliance and a higher success rate.
Looking for help with your ENS 482 application or employer sponsorship?