Exploring Australia’s New Immigration Framework: CSOL and Skills in Demand (SID) Visa Explained

📅 Originally published: December 16, 2024 | Last reviewed and updated: May 2026

Australia has overhauled its employer-sponsored migration framework with the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (Subclass 482), which replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa from 7 December 2024. Central to this framework is the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and a three-stream system designed to match skilled migrants with Australia’s genuine workforce needs. As of May 2026, this guide reflects the most current settings including the April 2026 framework update and the confirmed July 2026 salary threshold increases.

Key Highlights of the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482)

The SID visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and introduces three distinct streams:

1. Specialist Skills Stream: For applicants earning at least the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT). The current SSIT is AUD 141,210 (1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026). From 1 July 2026, this increases to AUD 146,717.
2. Core Skills Stream: For applicants earning at least the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT). The current CSIT is AUD 76,515 (1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026). From 1 July 2026, this increases to AUD 79,499. Nominations lodged before 30 June 2026 will be assessed at the current AUD 76,515 threshold even if a decision is made later.
3. Labour Agreement Stream: This stream serves regional and industry-specific agreements across critical sectors including aged care, disability support, and agriculture. The proposed Essential Skills stream, which was planned to replace this stream, has not yet been formally activated as of May 2026. The Labour Agreement stream remains the current pathway for these sectors.

Additionally, the minimum work experience requirement has been reduced to one year of full-time employment (or equivalent part-time or casual work) within the five years preceding the application. Both the Specialist Skills and Core Skills income thresholds will be indexed annually on 1 July, with updates published on the Department’s website.

A significant update effective 18 April 2026 expanded the job-mobility window for SID visa holders who leave an employer. Previously, visa holders had only 60 days to find a new sponsor before their visa was at risk. This has now been extended to 180 days, giving skilled workers significantly more flexibility when transitioning between employers.

The SID visa promotes worker mobility and simplifies processes for employers, ensuring they can access the skilled workers necessary to drive business growth.

Does the CSOL Apply to General Skilled Migration (GSM)?

No, the CSOL does not apply to General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas such as Subclass 189, 190, or 491. Instead, GSM visas rely on separate lists, including the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), which cater to independent skilled migration pathways.

Fast-Track Processing Times

• Core Skills Stream: 21-day service level agreement for complete applications.
• Specialist Skills Stream: Priority 7-day processing.

These are service level agreements for complete, decision-ready applications only. Applications missing documentation, requiring additional checks, or involving complex circumstances will take longer. Always verify current processing times at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

What’s New in the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)?

Replacing the STSOL, MLTSSL, and ROL, the CSOL modernizes skilled migration with 456 occupations, including:

• Cyber Security Analyst (ANZSCO: 262116)
• Dental Prosthetist (ANZSCO: 411212)
• Animal Husbandry Technician (ANZSCO: 311113)
• Data Scientist (ANZSCO: 224115)
• DevOps Engineer (ANZSCO: 261316)
• Child Care Worker (ANZSCO: 421111)

While reducing 125 occupations, the CSOL enhances pathways to permanent residency with 189 newly eligible occupations under the Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.

2025 CSOL Review. Jobs and Skills Australia completed a formal consultation on the 2025 CSOL review in late 2025, with submissions from employers, industry associations, and unions. The outcome of this review may result in occupations being added, removed, or modified on the CSOL. Any changes will directly affect eligibility for the Core Skills stream of the SID visa and the Direct Entry stream of the Subclass 186. Applicants and employers should monitor updates at jobsandskills.gov.au and seek legal advice before lodging if your occupation is in a contested category.

Caveat Updates

• New Caveat 16: Applies to the occupation “Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers nec” (ANZSCO code 149999). Caveat 16 explicitly excludes positions that involve roles as a brothel keeper. This legal restriction ensures the scope of the occupation aligns with regulatory and ethical employment practices.

Caveat 14 Clarification

The Department of Home Affairs has provided detailed clarification regarding the interpretation and application of Caveat 14 for occupations under the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (Subclass 482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (Subclass 186) Direct Entry stream:

• Definition: Caveat 14 states: “The position is not provided for under an International Trade Obligation.” This indicates that the occupation is included on the CSOL due to a commitment under an International Trade Obligation (ITO).
• Chef Applications: The Department clarified that applications for Chefs are not restricted by nationality under ITO provisions. Although this caveat may be read as restricting Chef applications to certain nationalities, this is not the intent. The Department plans to amend the instrument to clarify this as a priority. In the meantime, Chef applications will not be refused or prevented based on nationality.
• Continued Application: Caveat 14 continues to apply to the following occupations:
  • Private Tutors and Teachers nec
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner
  • Other Sports Coach or Instructor (Wushu Martial Arts Coach or Yoga Instructor Only)

Caveat 14 applies to these roles because:

• Skill Level 4 Occupations: For roles such as Wushu Martial Arts Coach and Yoga Instructor, which are Skill Level 4 occupations, they would not typically qualify for inclusion on the CSOL.
• Labor Market and Stakeholder Analysis: For Private Tutors and Teachers nec and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, their inclusion on the CSOL was not supported by labor market analysis or stakeholder feedback conducted by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA).

Revised English Language Requirements for Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

The Migration (Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024 repeals IMMI 18/032 and specifies the English language test requirements for applicants under both the Specialist Skills stream and Core Skills stream of the SID visa. These requirements are identical to those previously applied to the Medium-Term stream of the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa.

• Test Scores: An IELTS score of level 5 overall, with a minimum of 5 in each component, or equivalent scores in other approved tests.
• Approved Tests: IELTS, OET, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English: Advanced.
• Validity: Test results must be obtained in a single attempt and cannot be older than three years at the time of application submission.
• Exemptions: Include citizens of Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, and the USA, as well as applicants with five years of full-time study in English or those earning at least AUD 96,400 annually with a standard business sponsor.
  Note: this exemption threshold is subject to annual indexation and should be verified at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before relying on this exemption.

These consistent and practical requirements ensure that applicants meet language standards aligned with Australia’s skilled migration objectives.

Updated Financial Capacity Requirements for Sponsors

Employers must demonstrate financial capacity using documents such as profit and loss statements or contracts, ensuring they can meet salary obligations.

Enhanced Worker Flexibility

• Casual Work Allowed: 482 visa holders can engage in casual employment during the six-month grace period while seeking a new sponsor.
• Streamlined Sponsor Obligations: Employers are no longer required to ensure visa holders work exclusively in nominated roles after employment ends.

Self-Sponsorship for Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

Self-sponsorship is still possible under the Skills in Demand (SID) visa. However, it is considered a high-risk approach. While no changes have been made to policy in this area, self-sponsorship applications require meticulous preparation to demonstrate compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Skilling Australia Fund (SAF) Levy Refunds

Refund provisions for the SAF Levy remain unchanged, with refunds available in limited scenarios, such as visa refusals within 12 months.

Pathways for Occupations Removed from CSOL

Applicants in occupations removed from the CSOL can still transition to permanent residency via the 186 TRT stream if they meet salary and work experience criteria.

The Big Picture: A Seamless Pathway for Skilled Migrants

The introduction of the SID visa framework underscores Australia’s commitment to a simplified, globally competitive immigration system. The reforms balance rigorous standards with practical flexibility, offering employers efficient access to skilled talent while opening new pathways for migrants seeking permanent residency.

Why Choose Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers?

Navigating these comprehensive changes requires expert guidance. At Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers, we specialize in cutting-edge migration strategies tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re an employer seeking top talent or a skilled professional aiming for Australia, our team ensures a seamless, stress-free experience. Contact us today to secure your future in Australia’s evolving migration landscape.

Key Dates and Changes to Watch in 2026

1 July 2026: CSIT increases from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,499. SSIT increases from AUD 141,210 to AUD 146,717. Nominations lodged before 30 June 2026 are assessed at current thresholds even if decided after that date.

2025 CSOL Review outcome: Jobs and Skills Australia is expected to publish the updated CSOL following its 2025 consultation process. Occupations may be added or removed, directly affecting SID visa and 186 Direct Entry eligibility.

Essential Skills stream: Planned to replace the Labour Agreement stream for aged care, disability, and agricultural workers. Not yet formally activated as of May 2026.
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If your sponsorship or visa application is time-sensitive, lodging before 30 June 2026 may lock in the current lower salary threshold.