AN OVERVIEW OF EMPLOYER SPONSORED VISA

OMEC

The employer-sponsored visa program enables businesses in Australia to sponsor highly skilled foreign workers who possess recognized qualifications and expertise in specific occupations. Eligible employers have the opportunity to sponsor these overseas workers for either a temporary or permanent visa. This program allows employers to address their workforce needs by accessing qualified talent from overseas, ensuring that they have the necessary skills and knowledge required for the occupation in question.

Eligibility criteria for an employer-sponsored visa include the following:

1. Occupations on the Lists: The occupation of the applicant must be listed on either the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). The employer must also nominate an eligible occupation from these lists.
2. Skill Assessment: The applicant must have their skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for their occupation.
3. Employer Sponsorship: An eligible employer in Australia must sponsor the applicant for the visa. The employer should meet specific requirements and obligations set by the Australian government.
4. English Language Proficiency: The applicant must demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting the minimum requirements of the specified English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
5. Genuine Position: The nominated position by the employer must be genuine, and there should be a genuine need for the skills of the applicant in the Australian labor market.
6. Health and Character Checks: All applicants must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

It is important to note that these eligibility requirements may change over time, and additional criteria may apply depending on the specific visa subclass. It is recommended to consult the official website of the Department of Home Affairs or seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding eligibility for an employer-sponsored visa in Australia.

Types of Employer-Sponsored Visas

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

This visa allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for a temporary period to address specific skill shortages in Australia.

Benefits:

• Allows employers to address temporary skill shortages by sponsoring skilled overseas workers.
• Provides flexibility with visa durations ranging from two to four years, depending on the occupation and stream.
• Offers a potential pathway to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) after working for the sponsoring employer for a specified period.

Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer for a permanent position.

Benefits:

• Provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.
• Allows the visa holder and eligible family members to access certain social security benefits and healthcare services.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa (Subclass 187)

This visa enables employers in regional areas of Australia to sponsor skilled workers for permanent residency.

Benefits:

• Provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals nominated by an employer located in a designated regional area.
• Offers certain advantages, such as a broader range of occupations and potentially reduced eligibility requirements compared to non-regional visas.

Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858/124)

This visa program allows highly skilled individuals in targeted industries to be sponsored by Australian employers or be endorsed by a Global Talent Officer.

Benefits:

• Facilitates the entry of highly skilled individuals in targeted industries to contribute to Australia’s innovation and technology sectors.
• Allows for streamlined visa processing and offers a direct pathway to permanent residency.
• Provides access to a dedicated Global Talent program team for assistance and support throughout the visa application process.

Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)

Introduced as part of the regional migration changes, this visa allows employers in regional areas to sponsor skilled workers for up to five years.

Benefits:

• Targets regional areas of Australia, supporting local businesses and addressing skill shortages.
• Allows employers in regional areas to sponsor skilled workers for up to five years.
• Provides a potential pathway to permanent residency through the Regional Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after working for the sponsoring employer for a specific period.

These are some of the common types of employer-sponsored visas in Australia. Each visa has specific requirements and conditions that need to be met by both the employer and the sponsored worker. It is important to consult official government sources or seek professional advice to ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding these visa types.