If you’ve ever looked into working in Australia, you might be wondering about the differences between 457 and 482 visa. While the 457 visa is now part of history, the 482 visa has evolved and is still active under the Skills in Demand (SID) program. At IMM Consult, we know visa terms and rules can feel confusing, especially with new reforms coming in. Therefore, let’s walk you through what’s changed, what stays important, and how you can plan your next step with confidence.
Overview of the 457 Visa (Former Program)
The old Subclass 457 Temporary Work Visa allowed skilled workers to come to Australia for up to four years and covered many occupations. However, in 2017, it was replaced by the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. More recently, on 7th December 2024, Australia introduced the Skills in Demand (SID) program, a new version of the 482 visa designed to meet current labor needs.
Understanding the differences between the old 457 and the new 482 helps you choose the visa that best fits your career and long-term goals.
Overview of the 482 Visa (Current Skills in Demand Program)
The 482 visa started as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa but has now been updated under the Skills in Demand program. It helps employers fill jobs when there aren’t enough skilled workers in Australia. To qualify, you need an employer to sponsor you, have the right qualifications and work experience, meet English requirements, and have your occupation listed under the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) or Specialist Skills List.
There are three main streams:
- Specialist Skills Stream: For high-level roles with faster processing times.
- Core Skills Stream: For most skilled occupations on the CSOL.
- Labor Agreement Stream: For employers with special agreements approved by the government.
Depending on your stream, the visa can be granted for up to four years, and many roles now come with clearer pathways to permanent residency.
7 Key Differences Between 457 and 482 Visas
1. Purpose & Replacement
The 457 visa is now closed. The 482 (under the Skills in Demand program) is Australia’s main employer-sponsored visa, built with stronger checks and clearer PR options.
2. Eligibility
Both visas require skills and qualifications, but the 482 now asks for 2–5 years of experience, depending on your stream, along with stricter English and skill assessments. Employers also need to prove there’s a real shortage before hiring internationally.
3. Occupation Lists
The old 457 used one occupation list. The 482 uses the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and Specialist Skills List, which replaced the older STSOL and MLTSSL. Your PR eligibility depends on which list your job appears in.
4. Visa Duration
The 457 offered up to four years. The 482 generally lasts two to four years, with options to extend or apply for PR later.
5. Pathway to Permanent Residency
Under the 457, only certain jobs allowed PR. With the updated 482 (SID), more occupations can now transition to PR after two years of full-time work with the same employer.
6. Processing & Costs
The 482 has higher application fees and extra steps like Labour Market Testing (LMT), where employers must advertise the role locally before sponsoring someone. Processing can take longer, but it ensures fair hiring practices.
7. Current Relevance
The 457 is no longer available. The 482 (Skills in Demand) visa is the active pathway for skilled professionals in 2025 and beyond.
How to Decide Which Visa Suits You
If you’re planning to work in Australia, the best visa for you depends on your occupation, experience, and long-term goals. Check if your job is on the Core Skills or Specialist list, and whether your employer is ready to sponsor you.
How IMM Consult Helps
At IMM Consult, we’re here to simplify the process for you.
- Eligibility Checks: We assess your background and guide you toward the right skilled migration pathway, including the new Skills in Demand (482) visa.
- Documentation & Application Support: We help you prepare all required paperwork and ensure your visa application is accurate.
- Skills Assessment Guidance: Our team supports you through the skills assessment and explains the qualification and English test steps.
- Visa Process Coordination: We guide you through each stage of the visa process in partnership with licensed immigration advisors to ensure accuracy and compliance.
The Skills in Demand (482) visa is now Australia’s main pathway for skilled workers, and at IMM Consult, we can guide you in choosing the right steps for your future there.
