If you’re on a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa and planning to settle in Australia for good, things just got a lot more promising. Starting March 31, 2025, the door to permanent residency has opened wider and faster for many of you. At IME Advisors, we know how stressful visa rules can be, and we’re here to make things clear. As your trusted Employer Sponsored Visa Agent, we’re breaking down what’s changed and how you can take the next step toward permanent residency.
What Changed in 2025?
Australia has updated the rules to make it easier for TSS 482 visa holders to apply for the ENS 186 visa. This visa leads to permanent residency through employer sponsorship. If your job is on the Medium-Term list and you meet a few other conditions, you could be on your way to staying in Australia long-term.
What You Need to Have Before You Apply
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to be eligible:
Job on the Right List
Your current occupation must be listed under the Medium-Term stream. This list includes roles that Australia considers important for the long term.
Two Years with One Employer
You must have worked with the same company for two full years while holding your TSS 482 visa. Part-time or casual work can count too, but only if it adds up to the same number of full-time hours.
Under 45 Years Old
Age matters. You must be younger than 45 when you apply.
English Language Skills
You’ll need a score of at least 6 in each band of the IELTS test or something equivalent. No exceptions here—your English results must meet the standard.
Occupation Check
Make sure your work experience lines up with the right version of the ANCO. The job you’re using for the visa needs to be closely related to your real work experience.
We help our clients line this up properly to avoid mistakes. This is where a skilled Employer Sponsored Visa Agent can make a big difference.
What You Should Do Next
The updated rules are a real win if you’ve already been putting in the time and effort here in Australia. Here’s how to get started:
- Check Your Occupation
Not sure if your job is on the Medium-Term list? We’ll help you check it against the latest version.
- Collect Your Work History
Your time with your current employer matters most. Gather your records now to avoid delays.
- Book an English Test (if needed)
If your test results are old or if you’ve never taken one, now is a good time to do it.
- Speak With Us
We’re more than just paperwork fillers. As your Employer Sponsored Visa Agent, we’ll help you avoid common errors and speed up the process.
Why IME Advisors?
We’ve helped hundreds of skilled workers move from temporary to permanent residency. Our team stays up to date with every rule change and government update, so you don’t have to. You’ve done the hard work—let us help you make it count.
The new 2025 changes make things easier, but they still need to be done right. If you’re not sure whether you’re ready to apply for the ENS 186 visa, we’re here to guide you through it. Reach out to IME Advisors—your go-to Employer Sponsored Visa Agent—and let’s take the next step together.
Want to know if you qualify under the new rules? Contact us today, and we’ll take it from there.


