How to Find an Employer Sponsor in Australia

One of the most common questions we receive at Aussie Academics and Migration Services (A2MS) is, "How do I find an Employer sponsor?" Looking to live and work in Australia but not sure how to get employer sponsorship? You’re not alone. Employer-sponsored visas are one of the most popular pathways to live and work Down Under—but navigating the process can be tricky. The following guide may help you find an employer sponsor in Australia, featuring real-world tips and insider strategies from migration experts.
1. Understanding Visa Options
Generally, there are five categories that require employer sponsorship: 1. Skills In Demand Visa (Subclass 482): This visa allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in skilled workers. 2. Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186): This is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. 3. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494): Designed for skilled workers who wish to work in regional Australia. 4. Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA): These are agreements that provide a flexible approach to addressing labor shortages in specific regions. 5. Training Visa (Subclass 407): This visa allows individuals to take part in workplace-based occupational training or professional development in Australia to improve their skills. Check this 407 visa guide, if you need more inforamtion about training visa. 📌 Tip: Some occupations are only eligible in regional areas.
2. Preparing Your Profile
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to meet Australian standards.
  • Highlight relevant skills and experience aligned with your occupation.
  • Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your current experience.
  • Complete English language tests (if required).
  • Obtain any necessary registrations or licenses for your profession.
3. Utilizing Job Portals
  • Use platforms like Seek and LinkedIn to find sponsorship jobs.
  • Search with keywords like: '482 visa sponsorship' and 'sponsorship available'
  • Set job alerts to get updates on new roles.
  • Use networking features to connect with recruiters and industry professionals.
4. Researching Accredited Employers & LaboUr Agreements (DAMA, InduSTRY & Company Specific)
  • Find a list of accredited sponsors and employers with labor agreements on the Department of Home Affairs website.
  • This can help you identify companies that are already approved to sponsor overseas workers. These lists are a valuable resource for targeting your job search towards employers familiar with the sponsorship process.
  • Check the following link to access the list of accredited employers: Accredted Sponsors/Employers List
  • You can access the list of employer labour agreements, including DAMA, Industry, and Company Specific Agreements, through the following link: Labour Agreements List – DAMA, Industry & Company Specific, Etc.
5. Considering Regional Areas
  • Regional areas often have more job opportunities and greater demand for skilled workers
  • Be open to positions in smaller towns or regional cities
  • Check this link for information regarding the regional areas and associated post codes. Designated regional areas
6. Networking
  • Attend Industry events, Webinars and Forums
  • Actively engage with professionals on LinkedIn.
  • Share insights and participate in relevant discussions.
  • Benefits of networking: Access to unadvertised jobs, Mentorship and guidance and, Referrals and collaborations.
7. Engaging with Potential Employers
  • Once you identify potential sponsors, it's time to engage with them.
  • If you are already in Australia on a temporary visa, consider working in a relevant position to build a relationship with your employer before discussing sponsorship.
  • For offshore applicants, be prepared to discuss your sponsorship needs early in the hiring process.
  • Clear communication about your visa requirements and how you can add value to the company is essential.
  • Make sure to highlight your skills, experience, and how they align with the employer’s needs.
Important Considerations
TSS 482 Replaced by the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa As of 7 December 2024, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) has been officially replaced by the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482). The SID visa introduces a streamlined, three-pathway structure to better align skilled migration with labor market needs: 1. Specialist Skills Pathway: Designed for highly-skilled professionals crucial to Australia's productivity, with a minimum annual earning of AUD 135,000. This stream prioritizes rapid processing! 2. Core Skills Pathway: Targeting skilled workers in occupations facing critical shortages, offering a streamlined process for those earning above AUD 73,150. Visa processing time were anticipated to be approximately 21 days, however its on average taking about 60 days of processing by the DoHA. 3. Essential Skills Pathway(Not yet available): Aimed at workers in essential roles earning below AUD 73,150, with a focus on filling critical workforce gaps and supporting economic growth. Key Updates: 1. Annual Indexation of Income Thresholds: Starting July 1, 2025, the income thresholds for skilled visas will increase by 4.6% to align with changes in the AWOTE(Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings). From 1 July 2025, income thresholds will increase as follows:(i) CSIT (Core Skills): AUD 73,150 → 76,515 – applies to Subclass 482 (Core Skills) and Subclass 186.(ii) SSIT (Specialist Skills): AUD 135,000 → 141,210 – applies to Subclass 482 (Specialist Skills).(iii) TSMIT: AUD 73,150 → 76,515 – applies to Subclass 494 and 187 (subject to legislative approval).Note: Applicants must meet either the new threshold or the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) for the nominated role — whichever is higher. 2. Occupation Lists and Eligibility The government continues to refine the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL) to ensure it reflects current workforce shortages. Visa subclasses such as the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494), and the new SID 482 visa depend on updated eligible occupations aligned with industry needs. Access the revised occupation lists here: (iii) SID482 CSOL List (ii) ENS186 Occupations List (iii) 494 Occupations List (iv) 407 Occupations List
Legal Obligations
🚫 It's illegal for employers to ask for or receive payment in exchange for sponsorship. Both the applicant and employer can face severe penalties for engaging in such practices.
Seeking Professional Help
For more detailed advice and assistance with employer-sponsored visas, contact Aussie Academics and Migration Services (A2MS). We're here to help you navigate your journey to Australia!
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Disclaimer: The contents of this website are provided for general informational purposes only. We strongly recommend seeking advice from a Registered Migration Agent like A2MS, to address your specific factual situation and navigate relevant migration laws effectively. This personalized guidance ensures accurate and tailored advice for your individual circumstances.