Knowledge Base

What are the different types of sponsored work visas available for Australia? There are three: temporary skill shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), employer nomination scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186), and regional sponsored migration scheme (RSMS) visa (subclass 187). 

What is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa? The TSS visa (subclass 482) lets employers address skill shortages by bringing in skilled workers, from other countries, when they cannot find an appropriately skilled Australian. Under the TSS visa also are short-term, medium-term, and labor agreement streams. 

How long can I stay in Australia on a sponsored work visa? Your length of stay will depend on your visa type and stream. For example, you can stay for up to two (short-term) to four years (medium-term stream) with your TSS visa. To learn more about this, contact us at Legacy Migration for more details. 

What are the requirements for employers to sponsor a foreign worker? The primary requirement for employers to sponsor a foreign worker is to show proof that they cannot find an Australian citizen of permanent resident with the skills and experience needed for a job. Aside from that, employers must also meet specific sponsorship obligations and ensure the position is on the Skilled Occupation List. 

Do I need to have a job offer before applying for a sponsored work visa? You generally need a job offer from an approved Australian employer to be qualified. 

What occupations are eligible for sponsored work visas? Eligible occupations are listed on the Skilled Occupation List, which is regularly updated by the Australian Government. To keep updated with the list, contact us at Legacy Migration to receive the latest updates regarding the list. 

How much does a sponsored work visa application cost? Application costs for sponsored work visas will vary depending on the visa type or stream. For example, the TSS visa (short-term) application costs AUD1,495, while the skilled employer sponsored regional (provisional) visa costs AUD4,770. However, these figures are for the application costs only; other related costs are not included. For a more realistic and accurate breakdown of possible total costs for application, talk to us at Legacy Migration and get a consultation. 

Can I bring my family members with me on a sponsored work visa? You may include eligible family members in your visa application. However, this will still be subject to further evaluation. 

What are the English language requirements for sponsored work visas? Unless you fall into certain exemptions (passport holder from the U.K. or U.S.A., diplomat, etc.), you’re required to score at least 5.0 in IELTS or 36 in PTE. 

How long does it take to process a sponsored work visa application? Like any other Australian visa, processing times will vary depending on visa type and certain circumstances. The TSS visa, for example, may take a few weeks to several months. 

Can I change employers while on a sponsored work visa? Should you decide to change employers, you need to find a new sponsor (employer) and apply for a new nomination. You are given 60 days to do this from the day you terminate relationships with your employer. 

What happens if I lose my job while on a sponsored work visa? In such an event, you’ll be given 60 days to look for a new sponsor and apply for another nomination. Failure to do so will result in withdrawal from the country. 

Can I apply for permanent residency after being on a sponsored work visa? Certain sponsored work visas, such as the TSS visa, provide pathways to permanent residency. To know more about this, reach out to us at Legacy Migration for more information. 

What are the salary requirements for sponsored work visas? Employers are required to pay the market salary rate for the position, ensuring it meets the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). 

Do I need to have my skills assessed for a sponsored work visa? You may need to have your skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority depending on your occupation and visa type. 

What are the health and character requirements for sponsored work visas? Like any other Australian visas, sponsored work visas require certain medical examinations, adequate health insurance, clear criminal history (subject to evaluation in certain cases), and proof of good character. 

Can I study while on a sponsored work visa? Sponsored work visas are generally intended for working individuals, but visa holders may study. However, they must see to it that certain conditions are met, and restrictions are followed.  

What is the labour market testing requirement for sponsored visas? This is requirement where employers must show that they have tested the local labor market but were unable to find an appropriate Australian worker for the job. 

Are there age limits for sponsored work visas? Most sponsored work visas do not have age limits; however, some streams have age limits, like the skilled employer sponsored regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494), which require applicants to be under 45 years of age. 

What are the obligations of employers sponsoring foreign workers? Some obligations include paying the market salary rate, ensuring the position is genuine, and meeting training requirements.