Australia Introduces New Visa for Hiring Foreign Workers ‘Skills in Demand’

Australia’s ‘Skills in Demand’ visa is a groundbreaking initiative designed to address critical skill gaps and enhance worker mobility within the labor market. This strategic move involves replacing the existing Temporary Skills Shortage (Subclass 482) visa with a more focused approach. The visa offers three distinct pathways tailored to attract temporary skilled migrants vital to Australia’s national productivity.

Eligibility Criteria for the Skills in Demand Visa

1. Specialist Skills Pathway Eligibility:

• Highly skilled professionals earning a minimum of AUD 135,000 annually.
• Excludes occupations in trades, machinery operations, driving, and labor.

1. Core Skills Pathway Eligibility:

• Occupations identified by Jobs and Skills Australia as facing shortages.
• Applicants must possess relevant skills and earn at least the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).

1. Essential Skills Pathway (Under Development) Eligibility:

• Targets workers with essential skills earning below AUD 70,000.
• Details for this pathway are currently in the finalization stage.

Documents Required for the Skills in Demand Visa

1. Specialist Skills Pathway Documents:

• Proof of annual income exceeding AUD 135,000.
• Occupation-specific qualifications and certifications.

1. Core Skills Pathway Documents:

• Evidence of skills relevant to identified shortage occupations.
• Proof of meeting the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold.

1. Essential Skills Pathway Documents (Upon Finalization):

• Details will be provided once the pathway is officially launched.
• Likely to include proof of essential skills and income below AUD 70,000.

How to Apply for the Skills in Demand Visa

1. Online Application:

• Applicants can submit their applications through the official online portal.

1. Document Submission:

• Upload all required documents, including proof of skills, income, and qualifications.

1. Pathway Selection:

• Choose the appropriate pathway based on eligibility and occupation.

1. Payment of Fees:

• Pay the required visa application fees through the designated payment channels.

1. Processing Times:

• Await processing, with expedited timelines for the Specialist Skills pathway (around seven days) and other streams (around 21 days).

1. Permanent Residency Application (if eligible):

• Individuals qualifying for permanent residency can initiate the application process after completing the four-year visa period.

This streamlined process aims to provide clarity and efficiency for applicants, ensuring that skilled migrants can navigate the application process with ease.

The ‘Skills in Demand’ visa not only introduces innovative pathways to address skill shortages but also prioritizes a straightforward application process for aspiring temporary skilled migrants looking to contribute to Australia’s workforce.