The 482 visa is temporary (up to 4 years) and requires ongoing sponsorship. On the other hand, the 186 visa is permanent and doesn’t require employer sponsorship once approved.

Typically, we recommend you continue to work for 2 years with the sponsoring employer under the 482 visa (TRT stream).

Absolutely. They can sponsor through Subclass 494. This allows regional businesses to sponsor skilled workers.

Employers ought to show they’ve tried to recruit Australians before offering any sponsorship. Typically, on national job boards, advertisements should run for a minimum of 28 days.

Yes, but the new employer should be an approved sponsor. Also, a new nomination should be lodged before you start your new role with the new employer.

TSMIT is the minimum salary requirement that applies to Subclass 482 nominations. The nominated salary must meet or exceed the threshold (where applicable) and match the market salary rate for the occupation. Employers cannot underpay sponsored workers below Australian standards.

Yes. The nominated role must closely align with the relevant ANZSCO occupation, including core duties and skill level. Having a similar job title alone is not sufficient; the responsibilities must genuinely match the occupation description listed under the relevant skilled occupation list. Incorrect occupation selection is a common reason for refusal.

In most cases, for the Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) pathway, the applicant must be nominated by their sponsoring employer after completing the required period of employment. If changing employers, eligibility may need to be reassessed under a different stream. Each case requires individual evaluation.

Condition 8607 requires Subclass 482 visa holders to work only in their nominated occupation, work only for their sponsoring employer (unless a new nomination is approved), and cease work if employment ends. Failure to comply may lead to visa cancellation.

Yes. If an employer withdraws nomination or ceases business operations, the visa holder may need to find a new approved sponsor, apply for another visa, or leave Australia within the permitted timeframe (generally 60 days). Employer stability is an important consideration before accepting sponsorship.

For Subclass 186 (ENS), applicants are generally required to be under 45 years of age at the time of application, unless an exemption applies. Age planning is important when considering long-term migration pathways.

Yes, provided they operate lawfully in Australia, meet sponsorship approval requirements, demonstrate a genuine need for the nominated role, and meet salary and compliance obligations. Business size alone does not prevent sponsorship, but compliance standards apply equally.

Generally, applicants must have at least 1 year of full-time relevant work experience in the nominated occupation or a closely related field. The experience must be genuine and closely aligned with the ANZSCO occupation duties.

Employers sponsoring a worker under Subclass 482 or 186 must pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy at the time of nomination. The levy amount depends on the business turnover and the visa period. This payment is mandatory and cannot be recovered from the employee.

Processing times vary depending on the stream, the occupation, completeness or your documentation, and whether any additional information is required. Incomplete or inconsistent applications may result in delays.