Temporary skill shortage (TSS) visa
This temporary visa lets an employer sponsor a suitably skilled overseas worker to fill a position when they are unable to find a suitably skilled Australian.
Basic eligibility
- You must be nominated to work in a skilled position by an approved sponsor
- The nominated occupation must be on one of the Government’s skilled occupation lists
- You must have suitable qualifications and/or experience for the position
- You must have at least 2 years experience in your nominated occupation
- A positive skills assessment applies to some occupations
- You must meet minimum English language requirements
Three Streams
Short-term Stream
- The occupation is on the Short-term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL)
- Permits the holder to stay in Australia and work for their sponsor for up to 2 years (4 years where an International Trade Obligation applies)
- A second 2-year visa may be granted while the holder is in Australia
- There is no pathway to permanent residence in this stream
Medium-term Stream
- The occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLSSL) or the Regional Occupations List (ROL)
- Permits the holder to stay in Australia and work for their sponsor for up to 4 years
- You may be eligible to apply for an employer sponsored permanent visa in this stream
Labour agreement Stream
- For skilled workers nominated by an employer with a Labour Agreement
- The occupation is specified in the labour agreement
- Permits the holder to stay in Australia and work for their sponsor for up to 4 years
- You may be eligible to apply for an employer sponsored permanent visa in this stream