The TSS Visa, also known as the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482), is a crucial component of Australia's immigration system that was created to alleviate skill shortages in the country's labour force. 

The TSS Visa was introduced to replace the Subclass 457 Visa. It is an essential tool for Australian businesses that are experiencing real shortages of skilled labour since it allows them to hire foreign workers when local applicants are not available.

There are three different subclasses of this temporary work visa, each of which is designed to accommodate particular durations and situations:

Short-Term Stream (up to two years)
This stream, which fills short-term skill gaps in the workforce, permits foreign nationals to work in Australia for a maximum of two years. It is well-suited for professions that require skilled workers.

Medium-Term Stream (up to four years)
Designed for jobs where there is a longer-term need for qualified workers, this stream allows for a maximum four-year stay. Significantly, it also creates a path for qualified people to seek permanent residency, supporting Australia's long-term objective of retaining skilled workers.

Labour Agreement Stream
This stream is defined by agreements between the government and particular Australian employers that facilitate the entry of foreign workers based on labour arrangements that have been mutually agreed upon. It provides flexibility in meeting workforce needs specific to an area or sector.

You are eligible for this visa if,

• Nominated by a legitimate Australian employer for a job.
• Worked for the nominee for a minimum of two years before applying, and be employed in the profession that was nominated.
• possess a valid visa, or if applying from within Australia, a bridging visa A, BVB, or BVC.
• Submitted for a position on the Short-Term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL) under the Short-Term Stream.
• Nominated for a career on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for the Medium-Term Stream.
• For Labour Agreement Stream: A job that falls under a labour agreement that the sponsor and the Australian government have.

You must submit the following documents while applying for this visa

• Authentic passport and additional identity documents (marriage certificate, ID card, etc.) as mandated by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Resumé, certificates, awards, licence or registration, and references from prior employers are examples of documents attesting to appropriate work experience, skills, and qualifications.
• A required skills assessment report can be necessary, depending on the visa route.
• Show proof that you have mastered the bare basics of English.
• Maintain valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Australia.
• Submit Forms 80 and 1221 with other documentation, like police certifications as a character certificate.
• If applying with a partner or other dependents, provide their identification documents, marriage license or proof of a registered relationship, and ensure they meet character requirements.

When to Apply
When nominated by an eligible Australian employer, applicants must apply for the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482). Before submitting, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork ready, including your passport, certifications, and evidence of your English skills.

Visa Processing Time
Depending on the chosen stream, the subclass 482 visa processing period varies. Processing usually takes 5 to 11 months for the Short-Term stream and 4 to 8 months for the Medium-Term stream. Typically, the Labour Agreement stream lasts four to nine months.

How to Apply
The sponsoring employer starts the procedure by submitting a sponsorship application in order to apply for the subclass 482 visa. After being accepted, they nominate the candidate, make the requisite fee and levy fund payments, and provide the required paperwork. After that, the candidate applies online using ImmiAccount, making sure to pay all costs necessary for the application to be completed.

Duration
Depending on the chosen stream, the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) has different validity periods. People may work in Australia for a maximum of two years under the Short-Term stream, with the possibility of a four-year extension under certain conditions. 

A four-year stay is permitted under the Medium-Term stream, after which one may be eligible for permanent residency. It is important to remember that to keep your visa valid, you must adhere to its requirements.

Fees
A Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) would set you back AUD 2,690. On the other hand, candidates applying through the Short-Term stream might just need to pay AUD1,290. Fees for each extra family member applying must also be taken into account. The costs of processing and administration related to the visa application are covered by these fees.

Can I extend my stay on a Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)?
Yes, if you're still working for the same sponsor, you can apply for a different visa. You must reapply, and the sponsor must submit a new nomination.

What does the subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa aim to accomplish?
In order to fill skill gaps in the Australian workforce, corporations can sponsor foreign workers for certain positions under the subclass 482 visa, provided that no appropriate local applicant is found.

Does the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) have an age limit?
No, the category 482 visa does not have an age restriction. The main requirements for eligibility are sponsorship, experience, and occupation.