Australia’s 482 Visa Update: Occupation List Review Underway, English Requirement Eased

The Australian Government has recently announced that Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) will commence a review of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This list is central to determining which industries can sponsor skilled migrants through the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa. Health care, education, construction, and information technology have been highlighted as priority sectors.

At the same time, from 13 September 2025, the English language requirement for 482 applicants will be lowered. The new threshold is just PTE Listening 33, Reading 36, Writing 29, Speaking 24, equivalent to IELTS 5 in each band. This change represents a significant relaxation of the entry barrier, enabling more skilled workers to access the Australian labour market sooner.

Key Requirements for the 482 Visa

• At least 1 year of full-time, relevant work experience
• Genuine job offer from an Australian employer, with minimum salary thresholds:
  • Specialist Skills Pathway: AUD141,210 or above
  • Core Skills Pathway: AUD76,515 or above
• Skills assessment required for certain occupations
• Family unit can accompany the main applicant – partners can work legally, and dependent children may access discounted or free public schooling in many states

Why Choose the 482 Visa?

• No age limit – more flexible than many skilled migration pathways
• Lower entry requirements – avoids the competitive points-based EOI system
• Pathway to permanent residency – after working with the sponsoring employer for 2 years, eligible applicants can transition to the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa
• Industry alignment – helps fill chronic shortages across health care, IT, engineering, hospitality, agriculture and more

Riverwood’s View

The Subclass 482 visa is increasingly proving to be a win–win option: it allows Australian employers to address critical skill shortages, while giving skilled workers and their families a clear pathway to permanent residency.

With the CSOL review now underway and English requirements being eased, the next few months represent a strategic window of opportunity. Acting early, securing a sponsor, and preparing documentation will be essential to avoid missing out if occupations are later removed from the list.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: [email protected]), or book a consultation. We are committed to providing transparent and professional migration services to help you secure your visa and achieve your goal of moving to Australia.