What are the major differences between the new Skills in Demand visa and the former Temporary Skills Shortage visa?

Great question! Here are the major differences between the Skills in Demand (SID) visa and the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa:

1. **Name and Streams**:

- **TSS Visa**: Had three streams - Short-Term, Medium-Term, and Labor Agreement.

- **SID Visa**: Has three streams - Specialist Skills, Core Skills, and Essential Skills.

2. **Occupation Lists**:

- **TSS Visa**: Relied on specific occupation lists such as the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

- **SID Visa**: Only the Core Skills Stream uses the new Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). The Specialist Skills Stream does not require an occupation list.

3. **Salary Requirements**:

- **TSS Visa**: Did not have a specified salary requirement for all streams.

- **SID Visa**: Introduced salary thresholds for streams - Specialist Skills Stream (for jobs paying $135,000+), Core Skills Stream (for jobs paying $73,150+).

4. **Work Experience Requirement**:

- **TSS Visa**: Required at least 2 years of work experience in the relevant field.

- **SID Visa**: Reduced the work experience requirement to just 1 year.

5. **Employer Switching Flexibility**:

- **TSS Visa**: Had stricter conditions for changing employers.

- **SID Visa**: Allows switching employers within 180 days and up to 365 days total across the visa period to find a new sponsor or visa.

6. **Processing Time**:

- **TSS Visa**: Processing times varied depending on the stream and other factors.

- **SID Visa**: Offers priority processing for the Specialist Skills Stream with a commitment to a 7-day median visa processing time.

7. **Pathway to Permanent Residency**:

- **TSS Visa**: Had specific pathways for permanent residency through certain streams and conditions.

- **SID Visa**: Provides a clearer pathway to apply for permanent residency.

These are some of the key differences between the SID and TSS visas. If you have any more questions or need further details, feel free to ask!