Labour Agreement 482 Visa – Skilled Employer Sponsorship

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Labour Agreement 482 Visa

What is the Labour Agreement 482 Visa?

The Labour Agreement 482 Visa (also known as the Labour Agreement stream of the Skills in Demand visa or TSS visa) allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers for occupations and conditions agreed under a formal labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs. This stream is designed to help businesses address genuine skill shortages that cannot be filled locally or through standard skilled visa programs.

Who Can Use the 482 Labour Agreement Stream?

  • Businesses with a signed Labour Agreement (Industry, DAMA, Company, or Project) in place with the Australian Government
  • Industries and regions with special skill needs or where concessions to standard visa rules are required

Key Features & Benefits

  • Sponsor for 2–4 years: Visa duration up to 4 years, depending on the occupation/stream
  • Access to broader occupation lists: Includes jobs not on the standard skilled occupation lists
  • Concessions available: May include English, salary, age, or skills/experience flexibilities—specific to the agreement
  • Pathway to PR: Transition to Employer Nomination Scheme (186) or Skilled Regional (191) after required years

Eligibility Criteria

To apply under the 482 labour agreement stream, the employer and worker must meet the following:

For Employers:

  • Hold a current, valid Labour Agreement with the Department of Home Affairs
  • Nominate an occupation and role included in the agreement
  • Comply with sponsorship obligations, pay and employment standards

For Workers:

  • Be nominated for an occupation covered by the employer’s Labour Agreement
  • Meet required skills, qualifications, and experience (can vary by agreement)
  • Meet English language requirements (may be lower than standard 482, per agreement)
  • Pass health and character checks

Visa Duration

  • Most Labour Agreement 482 visas are granted for up to 4 years
  • Extensions and repeat sponsorships are possible as per agreement terms

Concessions Compared to Standard 482 Visa

Depending on the Labour Agreement, concessions may include:

  • Lower English language requirements
  • Lower minimum salary thresholds (TSMIT or CSIT), or regional/industry concessions
  • Higher age limits
  • Alternative qualifications or recognition of work experience in lieu of formal study
  • Inclusion of additional occupations (outside standard lists)

Check your specific Labour Agreement or get advice for precise details.

Application Process

  1. Employer secures a Labour Agreement (Industry, DAMA, Company-Specific, or Project)
  2. Nominate a skilled overseas worker for an eligible occupation
  3. Apply for the 482 Labour Agreement Visa (include all required documents and employer’s agreement details)
  4. Visa decision: Worker and eligible dependants are granted a temporary visa to work in Australia for the approved employer
  5. Transition to PR:
    • After required years (usually 2–3), eligible to apply for ENS (186) or Regional PR (191)

Need Help With the Labour Agreement 482 Visa?

Our team supports employers and skilled workers with:

  • Labour Agreement Guide
  • Eligibility checks and tailored advice
  • Step-by-step application and documentation
  • Transition to PR

 

🚀 Call us: 0485 907 989
📧 Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
📅 Book a consultation We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

Related Pages & Further Reading

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Labour Agreement services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us. 

What’s the difference between standard and labour agreement stream 482?

Labour Agreement 482 allows for special concessions and access to additional occupations, as negotiated with the government.

Who is eligible for the Labour Agreement 482 visa?

Workers nominated by approved employers with a valid Labour Agreement.

Can family members be included?

Yes—spouses/partners and children can be included on the visa.

Is this a pathway to PR?

Yes, typically after 2–3 years on a 482 LA visa, you can apply for a 186 or 191 visa, depending on your agreement.

Are all occupations eligible?

Only those listed in your employer’s Labour Agreement.