482 Visa Processing Delays | Government Processing Times Extending

Is your team anxiously waiting for a 482 Visa decision from the Department of Home Affairs? Well, grab a cuppa and settle in, because things are a bit tangled at the moment.

Due to the transition from the 482 Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa to the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa coming up in December 2024, there’s a backlog that’s making processing times feel like an ever-lengthening queue for a popular café.

The Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) and the Australian Industry Group (AIG) have flagged that these delays are putting pressure on businesses already struggling with skills shortages.

If you’re in the thick of this journey, stick around as we dive into what’s happening with these visas and what it all means for you.

Current Processing Times

Currently, processing times for both the TSS and the SID 482 Visas are dragging out longer than a hot summer day. For the SID Visa, here are the stats that’ll give you a picture of what’s in store:

Core Skills Stream: 90% of applications are being processed within 3 months.
Specialist Skills Stream: 90% are done within 67 days.

Now, if you remember, the Government originally promised swifter processing; think more along the lines of 7 days for Specialist Skills and 21 for Core Skills. Talk about going from a quick breakfast to a multi-course meal!

The Department is hopeful that as they chip away at the backlog, things will settle down and return to their speedy ways.

For the TSS Visa Applicants

As for TSS applicants, if you applied before December 2024, you might be feeling like you’re waiting for your favourite band to take the stage. Current stats show:

Both Short Term and Medium Term Streams: 90% are processed in 9 months.

That’s a hefty increase from the previously expected processing time of 0 to 80 days. If you’ve been affected, you’re not alone.

What’s Causing the Delays?

You might wonder why some TSS applicants are still in limbo, even if they applied months ago.

Some immigration commentators suggests the increasing demand for skilled workers is a key factor.

In fact, the Department reports a whopping 36% jump in application lodgements recently. With more and more people vying for a seat at this table, it’s easy to see why things have slowed down.

It’s also worth noting that a surge of onshore applicants and changes to work experience requirements have added to the strain on processing times.

Government Plans Ahead

The MIA recently discussed strategies with the Department about speeding things up.

By prioritising TSS applications, a 60% reduction in outstanding applications has already been achieved since late last year. However, concerns persist about whether all applicants, especially those in high-demand roles, are being treated equitably.

Now, regarding escalation requests—if you’re wondering whether the Department will fast-track your application, the unfortunate answer is likely no unless you’re officially outside standard processing timeframes.

Final Thoughts

For all of us keeping an eye on the ever-shifting landscape of skilled migration to Australia, it’s clear that processing times are critical. They not only affect individual applicants but also impact Australia’s ability to attract the talent it needs to keep the economy buzzing along.

So, whether you’re eagerly awaiting a visa or simply curious about the process, we’d love to hear your thoughts! What are you most curious about in this migration journey? Please share your questions or experiences in the comments below!

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