482 & 494 Sponsorship Agreements
To qualify for a standard business sponsorship agreement you must be able to meet the following:
- Prove that you are an actively operating business in Australia,
- Declare that you have a strong record of, or demonstrated commitment to non-discriminatory work practices, and
- Have no adverse information regarding your business.
Once you are approved as a sponsor you can then chose to nominate your overseas worker to fill the nominated position consistent with the approved list of occupations by the DOHA either through the 482 visa program (Skills in Demand) or the 494 visa program if your nominated position will be located in a designated regional area.
To nominate an overseas worker for a suitable position, you must also fulfill the following criteria:
- Show evidence that you have tested the market before nominating an overseas worker (unless you are exempt),
- Offer the overseas staff a minimum salary base that is no less favourable to an Australian employee and that is higher than the Temporary Skilled Migrant Income Threshold (TSMIT) that is currently set at $73,150,
- Demonstrate that the nominated position is genuine, and
- Maintain a strong financial standing to meet the terms and conditions of employment.
Upon approval of your nomination application, the DOHA can assess the visa application of your overseas worker, who must fulfill specific criteria to qualify.
For further information on how to follow a three-step process for becoming an approved sponsor, nominate a position, and apply for a 482 or 494 visa for your nominated overseas workers, contact us for a complimentary assessment or advice regarding your sponsored work visa needs.