Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy Information for Employers

Understand the SAF Levy and How It Impacts Your Employer-Sponsored Visa Applications

What is the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy?

The Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy is a contribution made by employers who sponsor skilled workers through the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) programs. The levy is designed to support the training and development of the Australian workforce by funding apprenticeships and other training programs.

Key Points about the SAF Levy

It is required for most employer-sponsored visa applications.

The levy applies to both temporary (Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)) and permanent (ENS (Subclass 186)) visa streams.

The amount varies depending on the size of the sponsoring employer and the visa subclass.

Who Must Pay the SAF Levy?

The SAF Levy amount varies based on the size of the employer’s business and the visa subclass being applied for.

1. For Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) Visa:

Small Businesses (less than $10 million annual turnover): $1,200 per year for a temporary worker.
Large Businesses (more than $10 million annual turnover): $1,800 per year for a temporary worker.

2. For ENS (Subclass 186) Visa:

Small Businesses: $3,000 for the first 3 years of the visa.
Large Businesses: $5,000 for the first 3 years of the visa.

Important: Employers will need to make this payment upfront as part of the visa application process.

Key Benefits of the SAF Levy

Supports Australian Workforce Development: The SAF Levy helps fund training and development programs to skill the Australian workforce.

Contributes to Regional and National Skill Gaps: The levy supports initiatives that target skills shortages in various industries.

Enhances Business Reputation: Employers contributing to the SAF Levy are supporting the future of Australia's workforce and may benefit from public recognition.

🔍 Application Process – Step by Step

Check Your Business Size

Determine if you are classified as a small or large business based on your annual turnover.

Calculate the SAF Levy

Based on the business size and the visa subclass, calculate the applicable SAF Levy amount.

Pay the SAF Levy

The SAF Levy is paid directly to the Department of Home Affairs during the visa nomination process.

Submit the Visa Application

Submit your employer nomination and worker’s visa application along with the SAF Levy payment.

❓Skilling Australian Fund Frequently Ask Questions

Who is exempt from paying the SAF Levy?

Certain visa subclasses like Subclass 485 or 187 (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme) may not require the SAF Levy. Regional employers may also have different obligations.

When do I pay the SAF Levy?

The SAF Levy is paid at the time of submitting the nomination for an employer-sponsored visa. It is paid upfront, before the visa application is processed.

Can the SAF Levy be refunded?

The SAF Levy is non-refundable unless the application is refused.

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.