Skills in Demand Visa

Skills in Demand (SID) Visa: A Pathway to Permanent Residency

Australia has replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa with the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa, effective 7 December 2024. This new visa program not only addresses labour shortages but also provides migrants with a clear and stable pathway to permanent residency.

Key Features of the SID Visa

The SID visa is designed to meet Australia’s evolving workforce needs. It is available in three streams:

Core Skills Stream: The primary stream for addressing labour shortages using occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Specialist Skills Stream: Targets highly skilled professionals earning at least AUD135,000.
Labour Agreement Stream: To be replaced by the Essential Skills stream, currently under development.

Advantages for Migrants and Employers

Migrants benefit from a streamlined application process, reduced work experience requirements, and a guaranteed pathway to permanent residence. Applicants must have at least one year of work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field—one year less than the TSS visa required.

Employers gain access to a skilled workforce that meets their specific needs, with SID visa holders able to contribute to the economy for up to four years. The ability to count all work with approved employers towards permanent residency adds certainty for both parties.

Enhanced Flexibility and Certainty

SID visa holders enjoy flexibility with work experience requirements and the same English language standards as the TSS medium-term stream. The structured pathway to permanent residence encourages long-term commitment to Australia’s workforce.

By addressing workforce shortages and reducing barriers for skilled migrants, the SID visa strengthens Australia’s economy and global competitiveness. For employers, it’s a game-changer in recruiting and retaining skilled talent.

Let us help you nominate yourself or a worker to take on a skilled occupation.

Ask us about the nomination process