Transition from 482 Visa to Permanent Residency Just Got Easier
HOme > Transition from 482 Visa to Permanent Residency Just Got Easier
From 25 November 2023, the Australian Government has introduced major changes to make the pathway from the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa to permanent residency more accessible. These updates simplify the process under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.
Who’s Eligible for ENS 186?
To apply for permanent residency under the ENS 186 TRT stream, you must:
- Continue working in your nominated occupation on a 482 visa.
- Be sponsored by your employer for at least 2 years (previously 3 years).
- Meet the standard nomination and visa criteria, including health and character checks.
How to Move from a 482 Visa to Permanent Residency
You may qualify for permanent residency if:
- Your occupation is listed on the Medium-Term Skilled Occupation List.
- You’ve worked with the same employer for 2 years on your 482 visa.
- You have competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent).
- You are under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Regional Pathway for 482 Visa Holders
If you’re working in a designated regional area, there’s a special route to permanent residency:
- Your occupation is on the Regional Occupation List.
- You’ve been employed by the same sponsor in the same role for 3 years.
- You meet the English requirements.
- You’re under 45 at the time of applying.
Other Residency Options
Not eligible for the above? You may still qualify under:
- Employer-Sponsored Direct Entry Stream (ENS/RSMS)
- Skilled Migration Programs (subclasses 189, 190, 491)
- Partner Migration (if you’re partnered with an Australian citizen or permanent resident)
Over 45? Here's What You Can Consider
While permanent residency pathways narrow after 45, certain visas like the Medium-Term 482 may offer work options and flexibility, depending on your occupation and employer support.
Coming in 2024: New Skills-Based Visa System
A new three-tier system is being introduced to replace the current 482 visa:
Specialist Skills Visa
- No occupation list
- 7-day processing
- For high-income earners ($135k+)
- Excludes trades and manual roles
Core Skills Visa
- Target trades and in-demand occupations
- Income range: $70k–$135k
- Based on the updated Skills in Demand list
Essential Skills Visa
- For critical sectors like aged care and disability
- Income under $70k
- Includes union oversight and visa caps
Why This Matters
These changes bring:
- Faster processing
- More employer flexibility
- Stronger pathways to PR
- Indexed salary thresholds
- A public sponsor register to make job movement easier
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Residency?
At LIVV Immigration, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from your 482 visa to permanent residency in Australia. With the new changes now in effect, there’s no better time to explore your options and secure your future.
Book a consultation today and let’s confidently plan your pathway to PR.
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