Whether you’re an employer counting on a new hire or a skilled worker ready to move to Australia through Subclass 482. The visa delays in this process definitely create frustration among all applicants.
The recent updates from the Department of Home Affairs confirm that processing delays are mainly happening due to ongoing backlogs and additional compliance checks across the program. The department has acknowledged the issue and confirms that improvements are happening unevenly across different streams.
What’s Causing the Delays?
Backlogs and the need for extra checks are mainly causing delays, and the Department of Home Affairs is actively working on this part by:
- Identifying low-risk applications for faster processing
- Improving allocation of resubmitted applications
- Encouraging first-touch decision-making by case officers
Some progress has already been made fast-forward, especially in the Specialist Skills stream, where backlog reductions are expected to become easily visible soon. Meanwhile, Core Skills stream applications are expected to take longer due to higher volumes and complexity.
Legacy TSS Caseload Still Slows Processing
There are now fewer than 3,000 old TSS visa applications still pending. These cases are taking longer because they require additional checks and Requests for Further Information (RFIs).
So, applicants and employers are advised to submit a well-prepared, accurate application that does not cause any type of delays.
Critical Occupations Face Standard Timelines
Standard processing times continue to have an impact on high-demand occupations such as nurses and doctors. The Department stated that Ministerial Direction 105 (MD 105) does not currently apply to the Skilled Occupation List (SID) program. As a result, even critical roles cannot be filled quickly.
What This Means for Applicants and Employers
For both employers and sponsored workers, Subclass 482 visa delays are expected to continue in the upcoming months, particularly for applications in the Core Skills stream and complex cases that require additional checks.
Applicants should expect that:
- Processing timelines may extend beyond standard expectations
- Requests for Further Information (RFIs) can add additional weeks or months
- Incomplete or poorly prepared applications face a higher risk of delays
Employers are advised to:
- Plan onboarding timelines carefully
- Expect possible delays when making workforce commitments
- Ensure nomination and role details are clearly documented to avoid compliance issues
Final Insights
Delays in Subclass 482 visa applications are predicted due to backlogs and additional checks, particularly for Core Skills stream applications. Here, accurate documentation and compliance remain critical for avoiding further interruptions.
If you want to ensure your Subclass 482 application is prepared correctly and stays on track, Growmore Immigration can guide both employers and skilled workers.
Contact us today for expert assistance.
Email: info@growmore.one
WhatsApp: +61 434 202 021
Phone: +61 3 8764 3334