Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS)

Fastest employer-sponsored work visa - no points test

Best for: Professionals with a job offer who need to start working in Australia quickly

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Points test

This visa is not points-tested. Eligibility depends on the specific requirements for the subclass rather than a points score.

Key facts at a glance

Visa type

Temporary

Validity

2 years (short-term) / 4 years (medium-term)

Work rights

With sponsoring employer only

Pathway to PR

Via Subclass 186 ENS (medium-term stream, after 2 years)

Application fee

AUD $3,210 (from 1 July 2025)

Processing time

1-6 months

Age limit

Under 45 (medium-term) / under 50 (short-term)

Occupation lists

CSOL (short-term and medium-term streams)

Employer sponsorship

Required

State nomination

Not required

Strengths

Fastest processing - some priority cases in weeks
No points test or state nomination
Can bring partner and children as secondary applicants
PR pathway via 186 for medium-term stream

Things to weigh up

Tied to sponsoring employer
Short-term stream has no direct PR pathway
Employer bears significant cost and admin burden
Work rights restricted to nominated occupation

Explore further

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General information only, not personal migration advice. Fees, points settings, occupation lists and eligibility are set by the Australian Government and change regularly; always confirm current details with the Department of Home Affairs. Afrovo is QEAC-certified and coordinates formal visa lodgement with MARA-partnered registered migration agents.