Up to 4 years. Hong Kong passport holders may stay up to 5 years.
← Back to Visa Guides
Specialist Skills stream
This visa enables employers to address labour shortages by bringing in skilled workers where employers can't source an appropriately skilled Australian worker.
At a Glance
From AUD 3,210.00
for an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool. This will show the processing times for recently decided applications. It is a guide only and not specific to your application.
See all conditions
You need to
- be nominated to work in an Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) occupation listed in Major Groups 1,2,4,5 or 6 with a salary that meets the Specialist Skills Income Threshold.
- have at least 1 year relevant work experience in your nominated occupation or a related field.
- have a relevant skills assessment if this is required for your occupation.
- work only for your sponsor or associated entity, unless you are exempt.
- meet minimum standards of English language proficiency unless you are exempt from needing to show this.
Help with your visa
If you are getting help with your visa, before you pay someone, read information on Who can help with your visa application.
With this visa, you may
- work in Australia for up to 4 years or up to 5 years if you are a Hong Kong passport holder.
- study (you won't receive government assistance).
- travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while the visa is valid.
- if eligible, lodge an application for permanent residence.