Australia Skills in-Demand Visa 2026 – All You Need to Know

Australia is changing the way skilled workers come to the country, and the new Skills In-Demand Visa is a major update. This visa will replace the old Subclass 482 (Temporary Skills Shortage) Visa and aims to make it easier for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia.

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This new visa will include three different streams, giving skilled migrants more flexibility, faster visa processing, and better chances of becoming a permanent resident.

Check, also: Australia Coach Seasonal Casual Jobs 2026 – Visa Sponsorship | Salary $28–$32/hr

What is the Australia Skills In-Demand Visa?

The Skills In-Demand Visa introduces a three-tier system that matches workers to the right stream based on their salary and skillset. Each stream offers different benefits, processing times, and eligibility.

Three Streams of the Skills In-Demand Visa

1. Specialist Skills Pathway

• For highly skilled professionals (excluding trades, drivers, laborers, and machine operators).
• Minimum salary: AUD 135,000/year
• Fast visa processing time – as little as 7 days
• Open to all occupations except a few restricted ones.

2. Core Skills Pathway

• For those working in roles listed on a Core Skills Occupation List (based on job market data).
• Minimum salary: AUD 70,000/year
• Covers a wide range of industries like healthcare, tech, and engineering.

3. Essential Skills Pathway

• For lower-paid workers in industries with chronic shortages.
• Mostly being tested in the care and support sectors.
• Likely to have sector-specific quotas and tighter rules.

How It Compares to the Old Subclass 482 TSS Visa

• The Skills In-Demand Visa will offer a 4-year stay, just like the Subclass 482.
• It gives workers more flexibility to switch jobs or employers.
• Workers will now have 180 days to find a new sponsor if they leave a job (compared to 60 days under the 482 visa).
• New pathways to permanent residency will be included.
• A more modern, flexible job list is expected for faster visa decisions.

Benefits of the Skills In-Demand Visa

• Permanent Residency Pathway
• Work in High-Demand Industries
• Access to Medicare (Public Healthcare)
• Sponsor Family Members
• Path to Australian Citizenship
• Social Security Benefits (after a waiting period)
• High Quality of Life
• Travel Flexibility – including visa-free travel to New Zealand

Why This Visa Is Better for Employers & Workers

• Faster application processing
• More flexibility in job switching
• Simplified job listing based on real-time labor needs
• Makes it easier for startups and small businesses to sponsor workers

Skills In Demand in Australia (2025)

Some of the most in-demand skills include:

• Teaching
• Customer Service
• Project Management
• Nursing
• Mental Health Support
• Sales

These roles are expected to grow, and workers can prepare through training, courses, and internships.

How to Apply for the Skills In-Demand Visa

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect online system.
2. Wait for an invitation from the government.
3. Apply for the visa under the correct pathway.
4. Meet all eligibility criteria like health, character, and sponsorship by an approved employer.

You can apply under visa subclasses like 189, 190, 485, or 491, depending on your situation.

Want Help Applying?

Send your CV to: info@daadscholarship.org
Their team can help you find the best visa pathway and guide you through the process.

FAQ

What is the salary range for this visa?

• From AUD 70,000 to AUD 135,000+ depending on the stream.

Is this visa permanent?

• It’s a temporary 4-year visa with a pathway to permanent residency.

Can I change employers?

• Yes. You now have 180 days to find a new sponsor if you leave your current job.

Final Thoughts

The Australia Skills In-Demand Visa 2025 is designed to attract global talent in a smart, flexible way. Whether you’re a high-level specialist, a skilled technician, or a support worker in critical industries, there’s a place for you.