The Australian government has expanded access to the Temporary Residency Transition (TRT) visa for certain Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders.

Key Points:

  • Beginning July 1, Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa holders who are currently on the short-term stream will be able to apply for permanent residency through the subclass 186 TRT visa. To be eligible, individuals must:
    • Hold a valid subclass 482 visa (Short-term stream) as the primary visa holder in the sponsored occupation of the sponsoring employer or a valid Bridging visa.
    • Have lived in Australia for at least 12 months between Feb. 1, 2020, and Dec. 14, 2021.
    • Have worked full time in the sponsored occupation for three years in the preceding four-year period.
  • Foreign nationals who have held a Subclass 482 Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) visa since before July 1, 2019, can apply for the TRT visa beginning July 1.

Additional Information: Individuals applying for the subclass 186 TRT visa must meet other related requirements, including requirements related to language skills, character, age and health status.

BAL Analysis: The Australian government will offer the new but limited permanent residency pathway for some subclass 482 visa holders who stayed in Australia through the COVID-19 pandemic or for those who obtained a subclass 482 visa through the short-term stream. Foreign nationals who may be eligible for the TRT visa should consult their BAL professional.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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