Ready for exciting news about your 482 visa journey to permanent residency?
Major updates are reshaping Australia’s skilled migration program. The current 482 visa will end in late 2024, giving way to a fresh ‘Skills in Demand’ visa with three clear pathways. Good news for visa holders: you’ll now have 180 days to switch employers, triple the previous 60-day limit, adding job security to your Australian work experience.
The path to permanent residency just got shorter. Your wait time for PR eligibility has dropped to two years with your sponsoring employer. Plus, from December 2024, the updated Temporary Residence Transition stream opens doors for more job roles to qualify for permanent residency.
Does this affect your PR plans? This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know about turning your 482 visa into permanent residency under these new 2024 rules. Let’s explore your options step by step.
New rules for 482 visa to permanent residency 2025
Great news arrived on November 25, 2023—your PR pathway just became easier. The Australian Government shortened the required work period with your sponsor from three years to two years.
Here’s the game-changer: all 482 visa holders can now pursue permanent residency through the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa. Your occupation list category no longer matters—short-term, medium-term, or regional.
Want to check if you qualify? Here are your must-meet requirements:
- Two years of work with your sponsoring employer within three years before nomination
- English language skills at competent level: score IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50 across all bands
- Age requirement: under 45 when you apply (some exceptions exist)
Some special groups get extra benefits. Medical professionals in regional areas and high-salary earners (above AUD 267,573.29) over 45 years old can use this two-year PR pathway too.
The next big change comes late 2024—say hello to the new ‘Skills in Demand’ visa. Let’s look at your three pathway options:
- Specialist Skills Pathway
- Work in any occupation
- Quick processing—just 7 days
- Earn at least AUD 206,413.68
- Core Skills Pathway
- Perfect for trades workers
- Salary between AUD 107,029.32 and AUD 206,413.68
- Essential Skills Pathway
- For aged care, disability sectors and similar
- Roles paying under AUD 107,029.32
From July 1, 2024, you’ll enjoy more job flexibility. Lost your sponsored position? Take up to 180 days (maximum 365 days during visa validity) to find a new sponsor. Meanwhile, feel free to work in any role—even outside your nominated occupation.