EmployerSponsorshipVisas
Skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers
Australian businesses sponsoring skilled international workers when suitable local candidates are unavailable
Employer-Sponsored Immigration
Employer-sponsored visas enable Australian businesses to fill skill shortages with qualified international workers. These visas provide pathways to permanent residence and allow skilled workers with job offers from approved Australian employers to live and work in Australia.
Job offer from approved Australian employer required
Multiple visa pathways from temporary to permanent
Clear routes to permanent residence via ENS 186
Regional opportunities with additional benefits
Priority processing for critical skills
Visa Categories
Subclass 482 - Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS)
Temporary visa allowing skilled workers to work for approved sponsors for 2-4 years. Short-term stream for 2 years (renewable once), Medium-term stream for 4 years with pathway to PR.
Subclass 186 - Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
Permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by their employer. Direct Entry stream for new applicants, Temporary Residence Transition for TSS holders, Labour Agreement stream.
Subclass 494 - Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional
5-year provisional visa for regional Australia. Pathway to permanent residence via subclass 191 after 3 years. Access to wider range of occupations in regional areas.
Subclass 407 - Training Visa
For workplace-based training or professional development up to 2 years. Must have sponsorship from approved organization with structured training program.
Subclass 408 - Temporary Activity
Short-term specialized work including entertainment, sports, research, and special programs. Various streams with different requirements and validity periods.
Labour Agreements & DAMA
Negotiated agreements for industries with demonstrated labour shortages. Designated Area Migration Agreements for regional areas with unique concessions.
Key Benefits
Job Security
Secure employment with committed Australian employer sponsor
Family Inclusion
Include spouse/partner and dependent children in application
PR Pathway
Clear progression from temporary to permanent residence
Career Growth
Access to Australian job market and career development
Regional Benefits
Additional concessions and opportunities in regional areas
Priority Processing
Faster processing for critical skills and regional positions
Application Process
Find Employer Sponsor
Secure job offer from employer willing to sponsor or become approved sponsor
Sponsorship Approval
Employer applies to become approved sponsor (if not already)
Position Nomination
Employer nominates position and demonstrates genuine need
Visa Application
Lodge visa application with supporting documents
Health & Character
Complete medical examinations and provide police clearances
Visa Decision
Receive decision and commence employment in Australia
Requirements
Employer Requirements
- Lawfully operating business in Australia
- Demonstrate genuine need for position
- Meet labour market testing (advertise locally)
- Offer market salary rates (minimum TSMIT)
- No adverse information against business
- Meet training obligations
Position Requirements
- Full-time position (minimum 35 hours/week)
- Genuine position in the business
- Occupation on relevant list
- Meet ANZSCO skill level requirements
- Market salary for the role
- Position located at business premises
Applicant Requirements
- Skills and experience for the role
- English language requirements
- Health and character clearances
- Genuine intention to work for sponsor
- Age requirements (if applicable)
- Skills assessment (if required)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between TSS 482 and ENS 186?
TSS 482 is a temporary visa (2-4 years) that can lead to permanent residence, while ENS 186 is a direct permanent residence visa. TSS requires less experience but ENS provides immediate permanent residence.
Can I change employers on a sponsored visa?
You can change employers but your new employer must be an approved sponsor and lodge a new nomination. You may need to apply for a new visa depending on circumstances.
What is labour market testing?
Employers must advertise positions to Australian job seekers before nominating overseas workers, unless exemptions apply. This includes mandatory Workforce Australia advertising.
How long before I can apply for permanent residence?
TSS Medium-term stream holders can apply for ENS 186 after 3 years with the same employer. Short-term stream has no direct PR pathway.
What is the SAF levy?
The Skilling Australians Fund levy is paid by employers to contribute to training Australian workers. Amounts vary by business size and visa type.
Can my family work and study?
Yes, secondary applicants on employer sponsored visas generally have full work and study rights in Australia.
What happens if I lose my job?
You typically have 60-90 days to find a new sponsor or apply for a different visa. Contact immigration immediately if employment ceases.
Are there age limits for employer sponsorship?
ENS 186 generally requires applicants under 45, but exemptions exist for certain streams. TSS 482 has no age limit.
What English level is required?
Varies by visa: TSS Short-term needs Vocational English (IELTS 5), TSS Medium-term and ENS need Competent English (IELTS 6 all bands).
Can I include my elderly parents?
Employer sponsored visas only include spouse/partner and dependent children. Parents require separate family visa applications.
Ready to Start Your Australian Career?
Let our experienced migration agents guide you through the employer sponsorship process and connect you with opportunities.