Australia offers various types of work visas for individuals who want to live and work in the country temporarily or permanently. The specific work visa you’ll need depends on factors such as your skills, qualifications, and the type of work you intend to do.
Here are some of the key work visa categories in Australia:
Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) and Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)
- These visas are for young people (typically aged 18-30 or 18-35, depending on the country) who want to travel, work, and holiday in Australia for up to a year or two.
- Different countries are eligible for either the subclass 417 or subclass 462 visa.
More information on this program
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482)
- This visa allows employers in Australia to sponsor skilled foreign workers to fill temporary skill shortages.
- There are three streams within this visa category:
- Short-Term Stream: For occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), allowing for a visa duration of up to 2 years (renewable once).
- Medium-Term Stream: For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), allowing for a visa duration of up to 4 years with a pathway to permanent residency.
- Labor Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored under a labor agreement between their employer and the Australian government.
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (subclass 186)
- This visa allows skilled workers nominated by their Australian employer to live and work in Australia permanently.
- Applicants must meet certain age, skill, and English language requirements.
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (subclass 187)
- This visa is for skilled workers nominated by an employer in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Like the ENS visa, it offers a pathway to permanent residency.
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
- These visas are for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer but have the skills and qualifications needed in Australia.
- The subclass 189 is a points-based visa, while the subclass 190 requires nomination by a state or territory government.
Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)
- This visa is for international students who have completed their studies in Australia and want to work temporarily in their field of study.
- It has two streams: Graduate Work Stream and Post-Study Work Stream.
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188/888)
- These visas are for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs who want to establish or manage a business or invest in Australia.
It’s essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria and requirements for the specific work visa you’re interested in, as they can vary significantly. Additionally, visa regulations and requirements can change over time, so it’s a good idea to consult the official website of the Department of Home Affairs in Australia or seek advice from a migration agent to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and guidance for your specific situation.