One of the most important parts of the 482 visa program is the occupation lista government-approved list of jobs that are eligible for sponsorship. Whether you're an engineer, IT specialist, nurse, chef, or tradesperson, your eligibility largely depends on whether your job appears on this list.

In this post, well guide you through:

• What the 482 visa is

• The different streams

• The 482 occupation list

• Eligibility requirements

• How to apply from within or outside Australia

What is the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)?

The TSS 482 visa is a temporary work visa that lets Australian businesses hire foreign workers for occupations they cannot fill locally. It is employer-sponsored, meaning you must have a job offer from a registered Australian employer before you apply.

There are three main streams under the 482 visa:

Short-Term Stream

• Valid for up to 2 years (or 4 years if international trade obligations apply)

• Occupation must be on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

• Not a direct pathway to permanent residency

Medium-Term Stream

• Valid for up to 4 years

• Occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

• Offers a pathway to PR after 3 years

Labour Agreement Stream

• For occupations covered under custom agreements between an employer and the Australian Government

• May offer alternative eligibility criteria

What is the 482 Visa Occupation List?

The 482 occupation list is a collection of skilled jobs recognized by the Department of Home Affairs as being in shortage in Australia. These lists determine the stream youre eligible for and whether you can transition to permanent residency later.

The occupation list is divided into three categories:

1. Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

Applicable to the short-term stream
Popular occupations include:

• Marketing Specialist

• Hotel Manager

• Chef

• Customer Service Manager

• Web Designer

2. Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

Applicable to the medium-term stream
Popular occupations include:

• Software Engineer

• Registered Nurse

• Civil Engineer

• Electrician

• Secondary School Teacher

3. Regional Occupation List (ROL)

Applicable to positions in regional Australia
Popular occupations include:

• Aged Care Worker

• Primary School Teacher

• Carpenter

• Diesel Mechanic

• Veterinary Nurse

You can search for eligible occupations here:

Top In-Demand Occupations for 482 Visa (As of 2025)

Heres a list of high-demand jobs currently eligible under the 482 visa streams:

Note: This list is subject to change. Always refer to the official occupation list or consult a migration agent for updated details.

Eligibility Requirements for 482 Visa Applicants

To apply for the 482 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Job Offer

You must be nominated by an approved Australian employer for an occupation on the list.

Skills & Qualifications

You must have:

• Relevant academic qualifications or trade certifications

• At least 2 years of full-time work experience in your nominated occupation

English Language Proficiency

• Short-term stream: IELTS 5.0 overall (with no score below 4.5)

• Medium-term stream: IELTS 5.0 (each band minimum)

Health & Character

• You must undergo a medical examination

• Provide police clearance certificates

Learn more about- Work Visa Australia

Can You Apply from Outside Australia?

Yes! You can apply for a 482 visa from India, the Philippines, the UK, or any other country, provided your employer in Australia sponsors your application.

Similarly, if you're already in Australia on a student or visitor visa (with no restriction like No Further Stay), you may be eligible to apply onshore.

What is the Cost of a 482 Visa?

Heres an estimate of the government fees (excluding agent fees and health checks):

• Primary applicant: From AUD $1,455 (Short-term) or $3,035 (Medium-term)

• Spouse: AUD $1,455

• Each dependent child: AUD $730

Additional costs include:

• English tests (IELTS, PTE)

• Health checks

• Skills assessment (if required)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the 482 visa a permanent visa?

A: No, the 482 visa is temporary, but the medium-term stream offers a pathway to permanent residency via subclass 186 or 187 visas.

Q2: Can my family come with me?

A: Yes. You can include your spouse and dependent children in your application.

Q3: Can I change employers on a 482 visa?

A: You can, but the new employer must be approved to sponsor you and lodge a new nomination.

Q4: What if my occupation is not on the list?

A: You may be eligible for other visa types like:

• Training Visa Subclass 407

• Temporary Graduate Visa 485

• Visitor Visa 600

Immigration Buddy: Your Partner for 482 Visa Success

At Immigration Buddy, weve helped hundreds of skilled workers secure a 482 visa and start their careers in Australia. Our MARA-registered agents assist with:

• Eligibility assessments

• Employer sponsorship support

• Document preparation

• Application tracking and visa strategy

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to gain international experience, earn a competitive salary, and possibly transition to permanent residency.

The key is ensuring your occupation is on the approved 482 visa list, and that you meet the eligibility requirements. If youre a qualified professional with global ambitions, nows the time to explore your options.