SID 482 visa processing times

SID 482 visa processing times

Processing Times:

Updated: Oct 2026

Skills in Demand visa (482): Core Skills stream

Skills in Demand visa (482): Specialist Skills stream

Skills in Demand visa (482): Nomination

Skills in Demand visa (482): Sponsorship

Labour Market Testing (LMT): employers must advertise the position in Australia in the 4 months before lodging the nomination. At least 2 advertisements are needed, each running for at least 4 weeks. Since 11 December 2023, advertising on Workforce Australia is no longer required.
Financial Capacity: Employers must provide evidence like profit and loss statements or contracts to prove their ability to pay the nominated salary under SID.
SAF Levy Refunds: Refund rules remain unchanged for candidates leaving within 12 months.

What affects SID 482 processing times

The times above show how long the Department of Home Affairs has recently taken to finalise most applications. Your own application can be faster or slower. From 19 September 2026, Ministerial Direction 121 sets the order in which the Department processes Skills in Demand (482) nominations and visa applications. Complete applications, with every document uploaded at lodgement, are usually decided sooner than applications that need a request for more information. For the times for other visas, see our visa processing times page.

SID 482 processing times: FAQs

Why does my SID 482 application take longer than the published time?

Published times are a guide based on recently finalised applications. Requests for more information, health or character checks, an incomplete nomination or a sponsor that is not yet approved can all add time.

Is the nomination processed before the visa application?

The sponsorship, nomination and visa application are separate decisions. They can be lodged together, but the visa cannot be granted until the employer is an approved sponsor and the nomination is approved.

Which applications are processed first?

From 19 September 2026, Ministerial Direction 121 sets the processing priorities for SID 482 nominations and visa applications. Our Skills in Demand visa guide explains the streams.

How can I avoid delays?

Lodge a complete application: a skills assessment if your occupation needs one, English test results, work references and identity documents, plus the employer’s nomination evidence. Answer any request from the Department by the date given.

Can I work while my SID 482 visa is being processed?

That depends on the visa you hold now. A bridging visa may let you work while you wait, but its conditions vary. Book a video consultation to check your situation.

Am I eligible for the SID 482 visa?

Book a video consultation with our registered migration agents to find out more about your visa options.