How to get Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia

This type of visa is ideal for those who have specialized skills or qualifications that are in demand in Australia.

Understanding the eligibility criteria and the documentation required is the first step. Applicants must meet certain skills, health, and character requirements, and the sponsoring employer must also fulfil specific obligations.

It’s essential to stay updated with the latest requirements and regulations set by the Australian government, as these can change periodically. This introduction will delve into the practical aspects of obtaining an employer-sponsored visa, offering insights and tips to guide you through the process.

How to get Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia

Getting an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia is a multi-step process that involves both the applicant and the sponsoring employer. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Find a Sponsoring Employer: The first step is to find an Australian employer willing to sponsor you. This usually means you have skills or qualifications in demand in Australia. The Australian government must approve employers to support employees from overseas.
2. Employer Applies for Sponsorship: Once you have found an employer, they must apply to become an approved sponsor. This involves the employer demonstrating their commitment to training Australian citizens and permanent residents and proving that they will offer you terms and conditions of employment that meet Australian standards.
3. Nomination by the Employer: After being approved as a sponsor, the employer must nominate you for a specific position. This involves providing details about the job, including salary, location, and why the role requires an overseas hire.
4. Visa Application: Once your employer’s nomination is approved, you can apply for the visa. You’ll need to provide evidence of your skills, qualifications, and work experience and meet health and character requirements. This may include medical examinations and police checks.
5. Visa Approval and Moving to Australia: If your visa application is successful, you will be granted a visa that allows you to live and work in Australia. The type of visa and its length will depend on the terms of your employment and other factors.
6. Compliance with Visa Conditions: After arriving in Australia, it’s important to comply with all visa conditions, including staying employed with your sponsoring employer. Failing to do so can result in visa cancellation.
7. Pathways to Permanent Residency: Some employer-sponsored visas offer trails to permanent residency in Australia. If you are interested in staying long-term, it’s worth discussing this with your employer and seeking advice on the best visa options for this pathway.

Eligibility Requirement for Employer-Sponsored Visa in Australia

The eligibility requirements for employer-sponsored visas in Australia can vary depending on the specific visa subclass you’re applying for, but some general conditions apply to most of them. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

For the Employee:

• Occupation: Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). These lists are regularly updated, so checking the current version before applying is important.
• Skills and experience: You must have the necessary skills and knowledge for the nominated occupation. This typically involves a minimum of 2 years of recent, relevant work experience. Some fields may require additional qualifications or certifications.
• English language: You must meet the English language proficiency requirements for the visa subclass you’re applying for. This is usually demonstrated through an IELTS test score.
• Age: There may be age restrictions for certain visa subclasses, such as the Employer Nominated Scheme (subclass 186), which has an age limit of 45.

For the Employer:

• Sponsorship eligibility: The employer must be an approved sponsor and meet the financial and business requirements for sponsorship. This involves demonstrating that they genuinely need the employee’s skills and cannot find a suitable Australian worker to fill the position.
• Labour market testing: The employer must conduct genuine testing to ensure no Australian workers are available.
• Market salary: The employer must pay the employee at least the market salary rate for the nominated occupation.

Benefits of getting Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia

Obtaining an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia offers several significant benefits for individuals looking to work and live there.

Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Work and Live in Australia: This visa allows you to legally work and reside in Australia, offering a unique opportunity to experience life in a new country with a high standard of living, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency: Many employer-sponsored visas offer a path to permanent residency. After fulfilling certain criteria, including duration of employment and meeting other requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence, paving the way for long-term settlement in Australia.
3. Family Inclusion: Employer-sponsored visas often allow you to include family members in your application. This means your spouse/partner and dependent children can also move to Australia with you, and they may have access to work and study rights.
4. Access to Australian Healthcare: As a visa holder, you and your family usually have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, which provides a range of healthcare services at low or no cost.
5. Career Opportunities: Australia has a dynamic job market with opportunities in various sectors. Being sponsored by an employer means you have secured a position in your field, and working in Australia can add valuable international experience to your resume.
6. Educational Opportunities: If you have children, they will have access to the Australian education system, known for its high standards. In some cases, you and your family might also be eligible to pursue further education in Australia.
7. Social and Cultural Integration: Living and working in Australia allows for social and cultural integration, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the Australian way of life, build a new social network, and experience the diverse culture of the country.
8. Stable and Regulated Work Environment: Australia is known for its strong worker rights and protections, ensuring a safe and fair work environment. This includes fair wages, work conditions, and benefits.
9. Language Advantage: As English is the primary language spoken in Australia, it can be easier for English-speaking migrants to adapt and integrate compared to countries with a language barrier.
10. Quality of Life: Australia consistently ranks high in terms of quality of life, with its clean environment, low crime rates, and focus on work-life balance, making it an attractive destination for many.

Conclusion

Obtaining an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia can be a gateway to exciting career opportunities and a new lifestyle. The journey requires finding a suitable Australian employer, navigating the sponsorship and visa application processes, and complying with the conditions of your visa.

While the process may seem daunting, the rewards of working in a country known for its strong economy, diverse culture, and high standard of living are immense. It’s a chance to grow professionally and experience a unique way of life, surrounded by Australia’s natural beauty and vibrant communities.

Prospective applicants need to stay informed and prepared. Regularly checking the latest information from the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs and possibly consulting with a migration agent can be invaluable.

Remember, the effort invested in securing an employer-sponsored visa is often rewarded with a rich, fulfilling experience in one of the world’s most desirable destinations. Whether you’re seeking career growth, a new adventure, or a stable environment for your family, an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia could be your ticket to a bright future.