Important Update: Changes to 482 Visa Work Experience Requirements in November

According to the Australian Government Budget 2024-25, significant updates to the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa will take effect from 23 November 2024. These changes are designed to make the visa more accessible to skilled workers and help address Australia’s skill shortages. Key updates include. 

1. No time restriction: older work experience is now valid. 
2. Part-time and casual work included: non-full-time work counts towards eligibility. 
3. Full-time not mandatory: full-time work is preferred but not required. 
4. Non-continuous work accepted: applicants with gaps in employment are still eligible. 
5. Work experience duration reduced: only one year of work experience is needed. 

No time restriction on experience 

The new policy removes the requirement for work experience to have been completed within the last five years. This change allows applicants to include older work experience, benefiting those who have had career breaks for reasons such as family, study, or other personal situations. 

Inclusion of part-time and casual work 

Under the updated policy, part-time and casual work will count toward the work experience requirement. This acknowledges that valuable skills can be gained through various job types. Applicants who have worked part-time or casually will now have this experience recognised, making it easier to qualify for the 482 visas. 

Full-time not mandatory 

Although full-time work is still preferred, it is no longer a strict requirement. This change accommodates applicants with diverse work backgrounds, including those who have balanced part-time work with other commitments. It ensures that applicants with relevant part-time experience are not excluded from the visa process. 

Non-continuous work accepted 

The policy now also recognises non-continuous work experience. Applicants no longer need to show an uninterrupted work history. This change supports those who have had gaps in their employment for reasons such as illness, travel, or career changes, making the application process more flexible. 

Work experience duration reduced 

The required work experience duration will be reduced from two years to one year. This change opens the visa to applicants who have gained the necessary skills and experience in a shorter period, especially those in the early stages of their careers. 

These changes are aimed at making the 482 visa more accessible to skilled workers. By removing previous restrictions and recognising various work experiences, the updated policy seeks to fill skill shortages across different industries in Australia.  

For further details and to schedule a consultation with one of our experts, please contact us at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.