Australia introduced a new visa system in December 2024, called the Visa for Skills (SID). This visa enables skilled workers from other countries to work and live in Australia, where there is a shortage of jobs.
It replaces the old Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) and provides better benefits for both workers and employers.
What is the skill required for a demand visa?
The skilled visa is designed for those who possess in-demand skills and wish to work in Australia. It means that an employer can sponsor skilled workers and eventually apply for permanent residence (PR).
There are three types of this visa (streams) based on your job and salary:
1. Specialist Skills Stream
For highly paid jobs (earning AUD 135,000 or more per year).
There is no fixed job list; however, tradespeople, drivers, and laborers are not permitted to apply.
Offers fast processing and more flexibility.
2. Core Skills Stream
- For jobs listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Salary must be above AUD 70,000 per year.
- Covers jobs in healthcare, IT, engineering, trades, and education.
- Leads to permanent residency after 2 years.
3. Essential Skills Stream
For low-paid but meaningful jobs, such as aged care and support workers.
- Salary is below AUD 70,000.
- Will be limited and highly monitored.
What Is the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)?
It is created by Jobs & Skills Australia, based on real data about worker shortages.
Examples of jobs on this list include:
- Nurses
- Electricians
- Software developers
- Civil engineers
- Aged care workers
- Teachers
What’s new in 2025 visas?
Need minor experience
Now, you only need 1 year of full-time experience in your area (instead of 2 years).
More time to change jobs
If you lose your job or want to switch to a new employer, you have 180 days to find a new sponsor (previously, it was only 60 days).
Permanent stay
You can apply every 2 years, even if you have worked for more than one employer.
Top skills Australia needs in 2025
Australia is facing a lack of workers in many areas. These are the top areas they hire from abroad:
Health services: nurses, rights, support workers
IT and Tech: Software developers, cyber security specialists, and data analysts
Construction: Civil engineer, electrician, plumber
Education: Early childhood and professional teachers
Green energy: Solar panel technician, stability specialist
2025 Visa Facts
By early 2025, over 63,000 SID visa applications had been submitted.
- More than 48,000 visas were approved.
- Most skilled workers settled in New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia.
- Most permanent residents in Australia now come through employer-sponsored visas.
Who Can Apply?
As a Worker:
- Your job must be on the CSOL.
- You must have at least 1 year of experience in your field.
- You must meet English language requirements.
- You need a job offer from an approved employer.
- You must earn at least the minimum salary set by the government.
As an Employer:
You must demonstrate that you were unable to find a local worker for the job.
- You must pay the required salary.
- You must be a registered and approved sponsor.
Why It Matters
The new Skills in Demand visa system is a big step forward. It:
- Real jobs are shortened in larger areas.
- This makes effective workers easier to move and live to Australia.
- Improves the possibility of getting a permanent stay.
Final Thoughts
If you have skills that Australia needs, it is an ideal time to use 2025. The new visa is sharp, more flexible, and provides a clear passage for permanent disposal. Whether you are in the health care system, technology, trades or teaching – this visa can open the door to a new life in Australia.