Employer-Sponsored Visas

Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa

The Subclass 482 visa allows approved sponsors to bring in skilled overseas workers to fill genuine labour shortages. It operates under the evolving Skills in Demand framework, which replaced the previous Temporary Skill Shortage structure to better reflect Australia’s workforce priorities. The Core Skills Stream covers a broad range of occupations across industries including healthcare, hospitality, trades, and automotive. The Specialist Skills Stream is designed for highly compensated professionals in niche roles where local supply is limited.

Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme Visa

The Subclass 186 is a permanent visa that allows Australian employers to nominate skilled workers for long-term placement. Workers already in Australia on a Subclass 482 visa may be eligible for the Temporary Residence Transition stream once they have completed a qualifying period of work with their sponsor. The Direct Entry stream is available to workers who have not previously held a Subclass 482 visa but meet the skills and qualifications criteria for their nominated occupation.

Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa

The Subclass 494 is a provisional visa enabling regional Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers in areas experiencing acute workforce shortages. Holders of this visa must live and work in a designated regional area for a period before becoming eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence — Skilled Regional) visa. This pathway is well suited to businesses in regional industries such as agriculture, construction, mining, and healthcare.