Australia has introduced the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa, replacing the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa. Starting December 7th 2024, this change aims to address the country’s critical skills shortages and make it easier for skilled workers to contribute to the Australian workforce. Announced by Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Tony Burke, the SID Visa is designed to attract global talent and help businesses find the workers they need.
What is the SID Visa?
The SID Visa provides employers with the ability to sponsor skilled workers for roles that cannot be filled locally. It introduces a more targeted approach, structured into three distinct streams that cater to Australia’s diverse labor needs.
Key Streams Explained
Designed to fill industry gaps in sectors such as construction, agriculture, cybersecurity, health, and education. Employers can sponsor workers for mid-income roles listed on the updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), which includes 456 identified occupations.
Aimed at highly skilled professionals in high-income roles to drive innovation and economic growth. Occupations listed under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (excluding trades) are eligible, with a minimum salary requirement of $135,000.
For employers operating under specific labor agreements, this stream addresses unique industry needs. It is set to transition to the ‘Essential Skills’ stream after further consultations with stakeholders.
Eligibility and Costs
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be nominated for a skilled position by an approved sponsor.
- Possess the necessary skills for the role.
- Fulfill English language proficiency requirements.
The visa allows most holders to stay for up to four years (five years for Hong Kong passport holders) and starts at a cost of AUD 3,115 for the main applicant.
Transitioning from the TSS Visa
TSS nominations and applications lodged before December 7th 2024, will be processed under the rules in place at the time of application. However, approved TSS nominations not followed by a visa application before the implementation date will be automatically converted to SID nominations, ensuring a hassle-free transition for employers and applicants.
Last Thoughts
This reform is expected to have a profound impact on industries reliant on skilled labor, making it easier for businesses to maintain growth and innovation. For education agents and migration consultants, this could open new opportunities for guiding skilled migrants through a clearer, more accessible visa process. As Australia positions itself as a competitive destination for global talent, it will be interesting to see how this change shapes the workforce landscape and the migration industry in the years to come.
