In 2024, Australian migration policy underwent numerous changes aimed at improving pathways for skilled migration. Particularly related to the 482 visa changes, these developments stem from the Government’s ‘Migration Strategy’ released in 2023, which resulted from comprehensive consultations with businesses, unions, and various stakeholders.
Subclass 482 Policy Updates Effective from 24 November 2024
A key focus of this strategic reform is the enhancement of sponsorship opportunities for skilled workers through the 482 visa program. The government has adopted a more relaxed approach, providing better clarity regarding the calculation of work experience. Two notable changes have significant implications for skilled workers seeking sponsorship from Australian employers:
- Recognition of Casual Labour as Work Experience: Previously, only ‘formal, ongoing’ employment – typically defined as continuous full-time or part-time equivalent – qualified for sponsorship. Now, casual and intermittent work can contribute towards the required one year of work experience.
- Reduction in Required Duration of Work Experience: For the 482 visa program, the duration of required work experience in the nominated occupation or a related field has been reduced from two years to just one year. This change to the 482 visa effectively broadens the pool of workers eligible for sponsorship, making it more accessible for many.
It is important to note that the updated migration policy specifies that only experience gained from voluntary or unpaid employment arrangements is excluded from the work experience requirement for the 482 visa.
While these new 482 visa changes mark a positive shift in the migration landscape, it is essential to remember that the ultimate discretion to scrutinise applications rests with the government. Therefore, all applications should be substantiated with high-quality, consistent and verifiable evidence of relevant employment experience.
These updates represent a significant opportunity for skilled workers to navigate the Australian migration system more effectively, ensuring that Australia continues to attract the talent necessary for its economic growth. For those wondering, what are the new changes in 482 visa? it is advisable to stay informed and prepared.
For the most accurate and detailed information regarding changes to sponsorship requirements, we recommend consulting the official Department of Home Affairs website or seeking professional migration advice.
For assistance, please call 02 7209 9256 to arrange a consultation with our experienced migration lawyer.
Want to learn more? Check out our related article: 1 July 2024: Upcoming Changes To Australian Immigration
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the new changes in the 482 visa?
A: The main changes in the 482 visa are the recognition of casual and intermittent work as valid work experience, and a reduction in the required duration of work experience from two years to one year.
Q: Does unpaid work count towards the 482 visa work experience requirement?
A: No, the updated migration policy specifies that only paid work experience is valid. Voluntary or unpaid employment is excluded.
Q: How can I get more information about 482 visa sponsorship requirements?
A: For detailed information, it’s recommended to consult the Department of Home Affairs website or seek professional advice from Brightstone Migration
Follow US on Social Media
Brightstone Legal
@brightstonelegal
Brightstone Legal
Brightstone铭石律师
Brightstone Migration
ID: brightstonelegal
Need to consult with us? Book an appointment today.
Our team will give you expert advice that has been specifically tailored to your case.
Successful Cases
Obtaining work permission on a bridging visa
28 October 2021Global Talent Independent Program – Fast-track Invitation
10 September 2021Related news
Skills in Demand Visa and National Innovation Visa Australia 2024
Visa Refused? Visa Appeal Guide: Key Steps to Success
How Immigration Lawyers Help Navigate Australia's Complex Visa System
How we will help
Free Assessment
Please call us or fill in the questionnaire here for a free initial assessment. After a simple communication, we will understand your concerns and visa requirements in detail, and then provide a timely and comprehensive professional consultation with tailor-made plans.
Consultation
Our consultations are typically 45-60 minutes long, which allows us to provide you with a detailed strategy to address the needs and concerns you raised with us during the initial call.
Our fee is $300 + GST for the full session. You can book in a consultation by calling us, emailing us or filling in the Contact Us form.
Developing and Managing a Strategy
During our consultation session, we will go through in more detail your background and circumstances to ensure that we can provide a tailored solution to your problems and making sure that you meet all the legal requirements. If we notice any potential issues, we will also immediately formulate a solution.
We’ll also balance time required, cost and difficulty and allow you choose the most appropriate strategy. We will then attend to all visa application matters on your behalf.