Employer-Sponsored Visas

Employer-Sponsored Visas

      Australia’s employer-sponsored visa program allows Australian businesses to address skill shortages by sponsoring qualified overseas workers. Two of the most common pathways are the Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage – TSS) visa and the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme – ENS) visa. These visas are administered by the Department of Home Affairs.

Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa

The Subclass 482 visa enables Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill positions where there is a genuine shortage of local talent.

Key Features

  • Temporary Work Visa

    • Short-term stream: up to 2 years (or 4 years in certain circumstances)

    • Medium-term stream: up to 4 years

  • Employer-sponsored position in an approved occupation

  • Possibility of transition to permanent residency (if eligible)

  • Family members can be included in the application

  • Applicants must have relevant skills, qualifications, and work experience

Streams Under Subclass 482

Short-Term Stream
  • For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List
  • English language requirement applies
  • Limited permanent residency pathway
Medium-Term Stream
  • For occupations listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List
  • Clear pathway to permanent residency
  • Longer visa validity
Labour Agreement Stream
  • For employers with a formal labour agreement with the Australian Government
Employer Requirements

Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa

Key Features
  • Permanent residency from grant
  • Work full-time for the sponsoring employer
  • Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
  • Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship (subject to residence requirements)
  • Include eligible family members

Streams Under Subclass 186

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
  • For Subclass 482 visa holders who have worked with their employer for the required period
  • Direct pathway from temporary to permanent residency
Direct Entry Stream
  • For applicants who have not held a Subclass 482 visa
  • Requires skills assessment in the nominated occupation
  • Typically requires at least 3 years of relevant work experience
Labour Agreement Stream
  • For applicants sponsored under a labour agreement
Eligibility Requirements