How Employer Sponsorship Works in Australia
Employer-sponsored migration is based on a nomination by an approved Australian business. Unlike the General Skilled Migration (GSM) stream, applicants do not need to lodge an EOI or compete in the points system; the employer becomes the sponsor, and eligibility depends on both the visa stream and occupation.
Employer sponsorship generally involves two steps:
- The employer becomes or uses an approved business sponsor.
- The employer nominates the overseas skilled worker for a suitable role.
Once approved, you can lodge your visa application and begin working in Australia.
Types of Employer Sponsored Visas
1. Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
- Duration: 2–4 years
- Allows employers to sponsor overseas workers for temporary roles
- Includes:
- -Short-term stream (2 years, renewable once)
- -Medium-term stream (up to 4 years, pathway to PR)
- -Labour agreement stream (custom employer agreements)
- Requirements:
- Nominated occupation must be on the STSOL or MLTSSL
- Relevant skills and work experience
- English language proficiency
- Employer must be an approved sponsor
2. Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
- Permanent residence visa
- Suitable for skilled workers nominated by an approved Australian employer
- Includes:
- -Direct Entry stream
- -Temporary Residence Transition stream
- -Labour Agreement stream
- Requirements:
- Occupation on MLTSSL
- Must be under 45 years old (with some exceptions)
- Must have competent English
- Must have skills assessment (for Direct Entry)
- At least 3 years of work experience in most cases
3. Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
- 5-year temporary visa with pathway to PR
- For skilled workers sponsored to work in designated regional areas
- Must live and work regionally for 3 years to become eligible for Subclass 191 PR
Common Employer Sponsored Visa Requirements in Australia
While each visa stream (482, 186 and 494) has its own specific criteria, some core eligibility requirements apply across all employer-sponsored visas in Australia.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Job Offer | From an approved employer sponsor |
| Occupation List | Must match with skilled occupation lists (STSOL/MLTSSL/ROL) |
| Skills Assessment | May be required based on the stream |
| English Test | IELTS or equivalent (varies by stream) |
| Work Experience | Usually 2–3 years in the nominated occupation |
| Health & Character | Police and medical checks required |
Benefits of Employer Sponsored Visas
This visa offers a direct pathway to live and work in Australia with the backing of a local employer. Key benefits include:
- Live and work legally in Australia
- Bring eligible family members
- Pathway to permanent residency (depending on visa)
- Access to government services (with PR)
- Opportunity to settle in regional Australia for extra benefits
Why Choose Click Consulting Group?
Assistance in choosing the right subclass (482, 186 or 494) based on your career goals
Strategic guidance on employer nominations and sponsorship pathways
Support with skills assessments, documentation and eligibility checks
PR planning for long-term settlement, where applicable
Compliance assistance for both applicants and sponsoring employers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is an employer-sponsored visa in Australia?
An employer-sponsored visa allows an Australian business to sponsor a skilled worker to live and work in Australia when they cannot find a suitable local candidate. It can be temporary (Subclass 482/494) or lead to permanent residency (Subclass 186).
Q2. Do I need a job offer to apply?
Yes. A valid job offer from an approved Australian employer is required before you can apply.
Q3. Can I change employers once I’m sponsored?
It depends on your visa subclass. You can switch employers, but the new employer must also be approved to sponsor and submit a new nomination before you commence employment with them.
Q4. Can an employer-sponsored visa lead to PR?
Yes. The Subclass 186 (ENS visa) and Subclass 494 (with transition after 3 years) provide pathways to Australian permanent residency, depending on eligibility.
Q5. How long does an employer-sponsored visa take to process?
Processing times vary depending on the stream, occupation, and employer documentation. In many cases, 482 visas can be processed faster when lodged correctly with complete evidence.
Q6. Can I bring my family with me on this visa?
Yes, it mostly allows you to include your spouse/partner and dependent children in the same application.
