Over the years, TPRC has successfully lodged over 3,000 work visas, with an impressive 99.7% success rate.
Having the right visa strategy can be the difference between success and failure for your business. We provide in-house migration services to ensure the best fit for both candidates and clients.
Understanding Work Visas
The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa has replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa as part of the Australian Government’s effort to address critical skill shortages while prioritising local workers. This is now the most common work visa.
Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (formerly TSS 482 Visa)
The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa has replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa as part of the Australian Government’s effort to address critical skill shortages while prioritising local workers. This visa allows skilled professionals to live and work in Australia for up to 4-years.
Key Features of the SID Visa
- No age limit.
- Allows visa holders to bring their family.
- Requires Labour Market Testing (LMT) to prove no local workers are available.
- Skills Assessments required for some occupations.
- Employers must pay market salary rates, or a minimum AUD 73,150 + superannuation (currently). This will increase annually.
- SID visa holders can become eligible for sponsored permanent residency after 2 years of full-time work.
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) are specialised arrangements between the Australian Department of Home Affairs and regional, state, or territory authorities. These agreements are tailored to address the unique labour needs of specific regional areas across Australia. Typically, DAMAs are established for a five-year period and provide a framework for employers in these regions to access a broader range of skilled and semi-skilled workers.
Under a DAMA, regional employers can sponsor employees for visas, including the new SID (formally TSS 482) and the 186 visas, in occupations that are not covered by the Standard Business Sponsorship program. This includes positions that may not be classified under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). DAMAs also offer potential concessions or exemptions, such as relaxed English language requirements or lower minimum salary thresholds, which can be beneficial for both employers and employees.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Useful if the SID visa does not apply.
Offers immediate permanent residency via state nomination.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
Useful if the SID visa does not apply.
Offers a 5-year visa with permanent residency after three years.
Subclass 494 – Employer Sponsored Regional Visa
Useful if the SID visa does not apply.
Offers a 5-year visa with permanent residency after three years.
Migration Advisory Services
TPRC offers in-house migration services, including access to our expert Migration Lawyer, who provides tailored advice on all applications.
Our service ensures the best visa fit by considering:
- Skill requirements
- Salary implications
- Language requirements.
As government policies and visa regulations evolve, our team stays up to date with the latest information, ensuring our clients receive the most effective migration solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Visas
Who Can Sponsor an Employee?
Most Australian businesses can sponsor skilled workers if they:
- Operate lawfully and demonstrate they are already trading.
- Show financial stability to meet sponsorship obligations.
- Offer employment in an eligible skilled occupation.
Startups may face increased scrutiny and must prove stable operations.
What are the visa nomination requirements for a SID visa?
To nominate a worker, employers must prove:
- A genuine need for the role.
- That they tried to recruit locally before hiring overseas.
- Salary meets the Australian market rate.
Labour Market Testing (LMT) means that employers must advertise the role for at least 28 days on two nationally recognised job sites.
Are there minimum work experience or education requirements?
These vary depending on the role, however a common rule is a minimum of 3 year’s experience.
What are typical visa processing times?
Nomination processing: 2 – 12 weeks
Visa approval: 1 – 4 weeks
Can family members come on a SID Visa?
Yes! Spouses and children can be included in the visa application.
- The spouse can work full-time in any role.
- Children can study (school fees may apply).
What is the minimum salary I need to pay?
You must pay sponsored workers the same salary as an equivalent Australian worker. This must meet the current Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). Contact our team to discuss specific salary requirements for your role.