For employers
Sponsor the skilled workers your business needs
When you cannot find the right people locally, employer sponsorship can help. We guide Australian businesses through sponsorship, nominations and their ongoing obligations.
Employer services
How we help businesses
Practical support at each stage, from working out whether sponsorship suits your business to meeting your obligations after a visa is granted.
Sponsorship applications
Becoming an approved sponsor and preparing nominations for overseas workers.
Skilled workforce planning
Matching the roles you cannot fill locally with suitable visa pathways.
Requirements guidance
Understanding nomination requirements such as salary rules and labour market testing.
Sponsor obligations
Help meeting your ongoing obligations as a sponsoring employer.
The process
How employer sponsorship works
Most employer sponsored visas follow three stages. Requirements depend on the visa and the role, and they change regularly.
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1
Sponsor approval
The business applies to become an approved sponsor, showing it is lawfully operating and able to meet sponsor obligations.
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2
Nomination
The business nominates a specific position, which must meet the program requirements for the occupation, salary and, where required, labour market testing.
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3
Visa application
The worker applies for the visa, showing they have the skills, qualifications, experience and English the role requires.
Related pathways
Visa pathways for your workers
Employer questions
Do I need to test the local labour market before sponsoring?
Labour market testing is required for many nominations, with some exemptions. The requirements are specific about how and where positions are advertised, so get advice before you advertise.
What are my obligations as a sponsor?
Sponsors must meet ongoing obligations, such as paying the nominated salary, keeping records and notifying the Department of certain changes. Penalties can apply if obligations are not met.
Can a worker already in Australia be sponsored?
Often, yes. Many workers on other temporary visas are sponsored by an employer, but their current visa conditions and the timing of the change need to be managed carefully.
Are there options for regional businesses?
Yes. Businesses in designated regional areas can access regional employer sponsored pathways, which can offer workers a pathway to permanent residence.
Planning to sponsor a worker?
Talk to a registered migration agent about the right pathway for your business and the role you need to fill.
Prefer to talk? Call +61 430 027 598 or message us on WhatsApp (opens WhatsApp)