How will the TSS visa differ from the current 457 visa?

The TSS visa will be made up of two streams, with the following criteria and restrictions to apply:

Short-term stream

• For occupations on the STSOL

• Granted for a maximum term of two years

• Visa can be renewed onshore once only

• Applicant must demonstrate that they genuinely intend to only stay in Australia temporarily

• No permanent residency pathway

• Applicants must have an International English Language Testing System or equivalent test score of 5, with a minimum score of 4.5 in each component (currently unclear whether current exemptions to the English language requirement will continue to apply)

Long-term stream

• Occupation must be on the MLTSSL

• Granted for a maximum of four years

• Can be renewed onshore

• Permanent residency pathway for holders after three years

• Applicants must have an International English Language Testing System or equivalent test score of 6 in each component (currently unclear whether current exemptions to the English language requirement will continue to apply)

Both Streams

• All applicants must have two years relevant work experience (recent graduates not eligible)

• Labour market testing will be mandatory - employers will be required to advertise the position locally to "test" whether there are suitability qualified Australian citizens or permanent residents who are available to fill the position before sponsoring a TSS visa

• Mandatory police checks for all applicants

• Employers must meet a non-discriminatory workforce test

• Employers must meet requirement to contribute towards Australian workers (to be strengthened from current requirements)

I