Visa 482 FAQ: requirements, cost, time and moving to PR
These are the most common questions about the visa 482, answered briefly so you can grasp the picture quickly. Each one has a more detailed article if you want to go deeper — and figures are shown with a status label and a source.
Who sponsors a visa 482?
The visa 482 needs an Australian business to act as sponsor and nominate the right position for you, before you lodge the visa application. Without a sponsoring employer the file cannot be opened — this is a major difference from independent skilled categories.
How much experience is needed?
The reference level of experience is 1 year working in the nominated occupation. The experience must match the occupation code, not general experience.
What level of English?
The English requirement for the visa 482 depends on the stream and the occupation — check the specific level on the official Home Affairs page; there are also groups that are exempt. Check the right stream for you before you start preparing for a test.
How much does a visa 482 cost?
The main application charge is currently 4,015 AUD for the primary applicant, not including dependant charges. The SAF levy is separately a charge for the business and is not passed to the worker.
How long does it take?
For the visa-assessment part alone, processing time varies by period and by file — check the Home Affairs Global visa processing times tool; there are also two steps on the business side, so the total time can be longer.
What if you lose your job?
When you cease employment with the sponsoring employer, you have a period to make arrangements — the reference point is 180 days — to find a new employer, change visa, or leave Australia.
How do you move to permanent residence?
The common route is to work the required time with the sponsoring employer and then be nominated for the visa 186 (TRT stream). This is why many people choose the 482 as a stepping stone towards PR.
When should you see a migration agent?
When the file has uncertain points — choosing the occupation code, changing employer, nearing a deadline, or planning the route to PR. Those situations should be looked at by a registered migration agent (MARA) rather than guessed at.