There are a number of employment sponsored visas available in Australia, each with its own specific requirements and benefits. The most common employment sponsored visas are:


  • Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) visa: This visa allows Australian employers to nominate overseas workers for skilled positions that cannot be filled by Australian citizens or permanent residents.
  • Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa: This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for temporary skilled positions in occupations that are on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
  • Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa: This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for skilled positions in designated regional areas of Australia.

Comparison of Employment Sponsored Visas

The following table compares the three employment sponsored visas:


CriterionSubclass 186 ENS visaSubclass 482 TSS visaSubclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa
Nomination requiredYesYesYes
Occupation listMedium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Regional Occupation List (ROL)
Visa lengthPermanentTemporary (up to four years)Temporary (up to five years)
Pathway to permanent residencyYesYesYes


Which visa is right for you?

The best visa for you will depend on your individual circumstances. If you are a skilled worker with an occupation on the MLTSSL and you have been nominated by an Australian employer, then the Subclass 186 ENS visa may be the best option for you. If you are a skilled worker with an occupation on the STSOL and you have been sponsored by an Australian employer, then the Subclass 482 TSS visa may be the best option for you. If you are a skilled worker with an occupation on the MLTSSL or ROL and you want to live and work in a designated regional area of Australia, then the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa may be the best option for you.


How to apply for an employment sponsored visa

To apply for an employment sponsored visa, you must be nominated by an Australian employer. Once you have been nominated, your employer will submit an application to the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. You will then need to complete an online visa application form and provide all supporting documentation, including evidence that you meet the eligibility criteria.


Processing times

The processing time for employment sponsored visas varies depending on a number of factors, including your individual circumstances and the current processing times. However, you can expect the processing time to take several months.


For guide click here


If you are interested in applying for an employment sponsored visa, it is important to seek advice from a registered migration agent. A migration agent can help you to assess your eligibility, complete the visa application form, and gather the required supporting documentation.

alt
alt

Excellence in Education
& Visa Services