Introducing the Australian Skills in Demand (SID) Visa: Everything you need to know
The Australian government is set to launch the Skills in Demand (SID) visa by the end of November 2024. This new visa program aims to attract skilled professionals from overseas to address labour shortages and will replace the existing Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482). Here's an overview of its key features:
General Eligibility Requirements
There is no specific age limit for the SID visa; however, applicants are required to demonstrate at least 12 months of relevant work experience (to be confirmed).
Applicants are also required to meet English language requirements by either holding a eligible passport, obtaining a score of at least “Competent” in one of the approved English Language tests or by meeting certain education requirements.
A skills assessment may be required to verify that the applicant’s education and experience align with the nominated occupation.
Applicants may also be required to provide police certificates for every country they’ve lived in for a period of 12 months or longer, within the past decade.
Sponsorship
Applicants need an employer sponsor who can justify the role's necessity within their company. Employers must show evidence of challenges in recruiting locally, except where international trade obligations apply.
The introduction of a new public register of approved business sponsors is also intended to help applicants find potential employers willing to sponsor their applications.
Pathways Under the SID Visa
There are three pathways under the SID as follows:
Visa Duration and Permanent Residency
All SID visas are valid for up to four years. Eligible visa holders can apply for permanent residency after two years, with all time spent under an approved sponsor counting toward this requirement. Switching sponsors will not reset this period.
Why the SID Visa Matters
This new system offers tailored pathways to suit diverse industries and skill levels while providing more streamlined and transparent processes. The SID visa represents a significant step toward addressing Australia’s labour needs while offering skilled migrants a clear pathway to long-term residency.
Keep an eye out for more details as the official launch approaches!
You can see our comparison between the Subclass 482 visa and the new Skills in Demand Visa in our May 2024 blog
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Please note that this publication is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances.
