Australia
Australia Work Visa Requirements
Skilled visas, employer sponsorship, and temporary work options. Get clear guidance on working in Australia and pathways to permanent residence.
Overview
Australia offers skilled independent and nominated visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491), employer-sponsored visas (Subclass 482, 186), and other work streams. You typically need an occupation on the relevant list, a skills assessment, and to meet points (where applicable). Employer sponsorship requires a nominating employer and often labour market testing.
Eligibility
- Occupation: Your job must be on the skilled list (e.g. MLTSSL, STSOL, or regional list).
- Skills assessment: Positive assessment from the designated authority for your occupation.
- Points: For points-tested visas, meet the minimum points (age, English, experience, education).
- Sponsorship: For 482/186, a valid sponsor and nomination are required.
- English: Competent or higher English usually required; evidence via approved test.
Required Documents
- Valid passport.
- Skills assessment outcome from the assessing body for your occupation.
- English test results (IELTS, PTE, or other accepted tests).
- Qualifications and work experience evidence.
- For employer-sponsored: nomination approval and employment contract.
- Health and character documents as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
Application Process
- Check your occupation and obtain a skills assessment from the relevant authority.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for points-tested visas if applicable.
- Receive an invitation (189/190/491) or secure employer nomination (482/186).
- Lodge the visa application online via ImmiAccount with all supporting documents.
- Complete health examinations and provide police certificates if requested.
- Wait for the decision; if granted, you will receive your visa grant notice.
Processing Time & Fee
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa application charge | Varies by subclass; check current fees on the Department of Home Affairs website |
| Processing time | Varies by visa type and stream; check global processing times |
| Visa duration | From temporary (e.g. 482) to permanent (186, 189, 190); 491 is provisional leading to PR |
Fees and processing times are set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Always verify on the official homeaffairs.gov.au website.
Important Tips
- Book your skills assessment early; processing can take several weeks.
- Maximise points (English, experience, regional study) to improve invitation chances.
- Ensure your employer is an approved sponsor and the nomination is approved before applying for 482/186.
- Keep certified copies of all documents; the department may request them at any time.
Need Help With Your Australia Work Visa?
We can help with skills assessments, points calculation, and employer-sponsored visa applications.
Book Appointment