Get Clear Answers to Your Employer Sponsorship Questions

The Subclass 482 visa, also known as the Skill in Demand Work Visa, allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers for temporary employment to fill skill shortages. This visa is used for occupations listed on the Skills Shortage List and is available for short-term (up to 2 years) or medium-term (up to 4 years) stays.

To be eligible for the Subclass 482 visa, employers must: 

• Nominate a skilled position that is listed on Australia’s Skills Shortage List. 

• Ensure the sponsored worker meets the necessary qualifications and experience for the role. 

• Offer the market salary rate for the position and ensure fair working conditions. 

The Subclass 494 visa is a provisional visa for skilled workers who will live and work in regional Australia. This visa allows businesses in regional areas to fill skill shortages with overseas workers. After three years, the worker can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

To be eligible for the Subclass 494 visa: 

• The worker must be sponsored by an approved regional employer. 

• The position must be in a regional area of Australia. 

• The worker must meet the skills and qualifications requirements for the nominated position. 

The Training Visa 407 allows overseas workers to come to Australia for workplace-based training. Employers can sponsor workers to help them develop specific skills in a professional field, providing them with the opportunity to gain additional skills while contributing to the business. This visa is ideal for businesses offering apprenticeships, internships, or other training programs.

Yes, family members (spouse, children, etc.) can be included in your sponsorship application for Subclass 482, 494, and 186 visas. Each family member will need to meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation.

When applying for sponsorship, you will need to submit the following key documents: 

• Proof of Business Registration (e.g., ABN, ACN). 

• Nomination documents, including job description, salary offer, and worker’s qualifications. 

• Labor Market Testing (if required) to demonstrate that no suitable Australian workers are available for the position. 

The processing time for the Subclass 482 visa varies based on the occupation and individual circumstances. On average, it can take between 2 to 4 months. Factors that affect the processing time include application volume, visa subclass, and whether additional documents or information are required.

The Subclass 186 visa allows skilled workers who are nominated by their Australian employer to gain permanent residency. There are three streams under this visa: 

• Direct Entry Stream: For workers with the necessary skills and qualifications but who have not worked in Australia. 

• Temporary Residence Transition Stream: For workers who have been employed by the same employer on a Subclass 482 visa for at least three years. 

• Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored under a labor agreement. 

To apply for the Subclass 186 visa: 

• Ensure you are nominated by an approved Australian employer. 

• Complete the visa application with required supporting documents, including proof of your qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency. 

Once your worker arrives, you must meet the following obligations: 

• Maintain accurate records of employment and ensure the worker is employed in the approved position. 

• Notify the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) of any changes to the worker’s employment (e.g., termination, position change, etc.). 

• Ensure the worker complies with visa conditions, including working in the nominated occupation and maintaining employment. 

Failure to meet sponsorship obligations can result in penalties or the revocation of your sponsorship status. It’s crucial to ensure that you maintain proper records and report any changes to the DHA to stay compliant with Australian immigration laws.