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Employer Sponsored Visas

Overview

✦Employer Sponsored Visas — Skilling the Workforce

Employer sponsored visas allow Australian businesses to address genuine skill shortages by sponsoring overseas workers for eligible positions where suitable local workers are not readily available.

The process typically involves three stages: employer sponsorship approval, nomination of the position, and the individual visa application.

In December 2024, the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa replaced the previous Temporary Skill Shortage framework. One key change is that applicants generally now require at least one year of relevant work experience, compared to two years under the previous system.

The Three Streams of the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) Visa

Core Skills stream

The mainstream pathway for skilled workers in occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). Salary must meet or exceed the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) — $79,499 for nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2026 — or the Annual Market Salary rate (AMSR), whichever is higher. Granted for up to four years, with a pathway to permanent residency.

Specialist Skills stream

For highly skilled, higher-earning professionals; benefits from priority processing. Salary must meet the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) — $146,717 for nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2026. Not available for trades workers, machinery operators, drivers or labourers.

Labour Agreement stream

For businesses in industries or regions where the standard framework does not fit, under a formal agreement negotiated with the Australian Government. Occupations, salary settings and any concessions are governed by the terms of the specific labour agreement.

Four Pillars of Sponsorship Compliance

1. Standard Business Sponsorship

Before sponsoring anyone, the business must be approved as a Standard Business Sponsor — demonstrating lawful and active operation and a sound compliance history.

2. Labour Market Testing

Employers must genuinely test the local labour market first. Advertising must meet the prescribed requirements, including minimum duration (generally 28 days) and approved platforms, with records kept.

3. Skills assessment where required

Depending on the occupation and the applicant’s circumstances, a formal skills assessment from the relevant authority (for example VETASSESS or ACS) may be required.

4. Market salary and sponsor obligations

Sponsors must pay at least the Annual Market Salary Rate so overseas workers are not used to undercut local wages, meet all sponsorship obligations (including bearing the costs of sponsorship), and notify the Department of relevant changes within the required timeframes.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)

Sponsored workers have a clear pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition stream after two years of full-time work with their sponsoring employer (reduced from the previous three-year requirement). Alternatively, the Direct Entry stream may be available with a positive skills assessment, subject to the applicable income threshold.

Sponsorship Compliance Is Under Closer Scrutiny

The Department of Home Affairs increasingly cross-checks sponsorship data, including against Australian Taxation Office records. Errors in salary benchmarking or labour market testing can lead to nomination refusals, penalties or the loss of sponsorship approval. Whether you are an employer building a stable workforce or a professional securing your future in Australia, we provide careful, end-to-end guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What visas are available under employer sponsorship?

Common options include temporary skilled visas and permanent employer-sponsored pathways. Eligibility depends on occupation, skills, and employer requirements.

Does my employer need to be approved?

Yes. Employers usually need to be an approved sponsor and meet sponsorship obligations before nominating an employee.

Can I change employers while on a sponsored visa?

In many cases, yes, but you must ensure a new sponsorship is approved to maintain lawful status.

What happens if my sponsorship ends?

You may need to find a new sponsor, apply for another visa, or make arrangements to leave Australia depending on your circumstances.

Why Choose Yantra Legal?

Yantra Legal is a boutique Australian law practice focused on providing clear, practical, and compassionate legal support in migration and family law matters. We understand that legal issues are often closely tied to important life decisions, relationships, and future plans. Our approach is grounded in clarity, strategy, and genuine care for each client's situation.

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Yantra Legal is a boutique Australian law practice providing practical and compassionate legal support in migration and family law matters. We combine legal expertise with a clear, honest, and client-focused approach to help you make informed decisions at every stage.

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