Australia continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for skilled and unskilled immigrants looking to advance their careers while enjoying a high quality of life. The country’s stable economy, diverse job market, and multicultural society make it an ideal place for foreign workers. To facilitate this, the Australian government offers a variety of job visa categories for foreigners with visa sponsorship, providing clear pathways for both temporary and permanent migration.
From healthcare to engineering, hospitality, construction, and technology, Australia offers immense opportunities across different sectors. Understanding the types of job visas in Australia, application processes, eligibility criteria, and potential earnings is crucial for any foreigner aiming to work legally in the country. Additionally, several Australian companies are authorized to sponsor skilled foreign workers, making the dream of relocating for work more accessible.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of jobs visa categories for immigrants in Australia, the visa requirements for employment, how to apply for jobs, expected salary ranges for foreigners, top companies hiring internationally, and provide answers to frequently asked questions to help you navigate your journey toward working and living in Australia.
Types of Jobs Visa Categories for Foreigners in Australia
Australia has a well-structured immigration system with multiple visa categories that accommodate various employment needs. Here are the major visa categories for jobs in Australia for immigrants with sponsorship:
1. Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa
This is the most common visa for sponsored employment. It allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers to fill labor shortages.
- Streams:
- Short-term (2 years)
- Medium-term (up to 4 years)
- Labour agreement stream (for specific industries)
- Occupation List: Must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Visa Sponsorship: Required by an approved business
2. Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa
This is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer.
- Eligibility: Usually after working for 3 years on a 482 visa
- Streams:
- Direct Entry
- Transition (from 482 visa)
- Agreement Stream
3. Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
This visa is for foreign workers sponsored by employers in regional areas.
- Validity: Up to 5 years
- Pathway to PR: After 3 years
- Requirement: Must live and work in regional Australia
4. Subclass 187 – Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Closed to new applicants but still relevant for transitional cases)
This was a pathway to permanent residency for workers in regional areas nominated by employers.
5. Subclass 407 – Training Visa
Designed for those looking to undergo workplace-based occupational training in Australia.
- Sponsorship: Required from a registered training provider or employer
- Use Case: Enhancing skills in an eligible occupation
6. Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858)
For highly skilled individuals in select industries such as tech, health, engineering, and finance.
- No sponsorship needed, but requires endorsement
- Fast-tracked permanent residence
Visa Requirements for Employment in Australia
To be eligible for a job visa in Australia with sponsorship, applicants must meet specific criteria depending on the visa subclass. Here are the general visa requirements for employment in Australia:
Common Requirements:
- A valid job offer from an Australian employer
- Employer must be an approved business sponsor
- Skills assessment (by an authorized skills assessment body)
- Occupation must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Relevant educational qualifications
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
- Minimum 2–3 years of work experience in the nominated occupation
- Good character (police clearance certificate)
- Health examination (for medical and visa clearance)
Employer Obligations:
- Must pay the Skilled Australian Market Salary Rate (AMSR)
- Cover visa nomination charges
- Be legally operating in Australia
How to Apply for Jobs in Australia
Step 1: Identify Your Visa Pathway
Determine which visa category suits your skill level and occupation. Use the Australian Government’s Skilled Occupation List and Visa Finder Tool on the Home Affairs website.
Step 2: Skills Assessment
Have your educational and work credentials assessed by the relevant skills authority. E.g., Engineers Australia, AITSL (for teachers), or VETASSESS (for general occupations).
Step 3: Secure a Job Offer
Search and apply for jobs in Australia using portals and recruitment agencies. Make sure the company is eligible to provide sponsorship.
Step 4: Apply for Sponsorship
Once you receive a job offer, your employer will submit a nomination and apply for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Step 5: Submit Visa Application
Apply online for the appropriate visa via ImmiAccount. Upload all necessary documents and pay the visa application fee.
Step 6: Await Outcome
The processing time can vary from 1 to 6 months depending on the visa type and individual circumstances.
Salary Scale for Jobs in Australia for Immigrants
The following table outlines average annual salaries for immigrants across various industries in Australia:
| Industry/Occupation | Visa Category | Average Salary (AUD/year) |
| Registered Nurse | Subclass 186/482 | $75,000 – $95,000 |
| Software Engineer | Subclass 482/858 | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Construction Worker | Subclass 494/482 | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| Chef/Cook | Subclass 482/494 | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Electrician | Subclass 186/494 | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| Secondary School Teacher | Subclass 186/494 | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| Agricultural Laborer | Subclass 494 | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| Accountant | Subclass 186/482 | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Aged Care Worker | Subclass 494 | $50,000 – $65,000 |
Note: Salaries may vary depending on region, experience, and employer.
Employment Companies Names to Find Opportunities To Work In Australia
Here are some top recruitment agencies and job boards for foreigners seeking visa-sponsored employment in Australia:
Government Sites:
- JobSearch Australia
- Home Affairs Skilled Visa
Recruitment Agencies: Work in Australia
- Hays Australia – Skilled professions across sectors
- Michael Page – Focus on finance, HR, and engineering
- Randstad Australia – Offers roles in construction, education, and healthcare
- Healthcare Australia (HCA) – Jobs in nursing and allied health
- Robert Walters – Specializes in IT and finance roles
- Sponsorship Jobs Australia – Dedicated platform for visa-sponsored roles
Job Boards:
- Seek
- Indeed Australia
- Adzuna
- CareerOne
Conclusion
With a comprehensive immigration framework and a steady demand for skilled and unskilled labor, Australia remains one of the top destinations for foreigners seeking job opportunities with full visa sponsorship. The key to success lies in understanding the different job visa categories, meeting the eligibility requirements, and aligning your professional skills with Australian market needs.
From healthcare to IT, trades, hospitality, and regional development, there is a clear pathway for immigrants to work, live, and eventually settle in Australia. With numerous recruitment companies and government portals offering guidance, the dream of working in Australia is closer than ever.
If you’re a foreign job seeker with the right qualifications and aspirations, now is the time to explore your options in Australia’s dynamic labor market.
FAQs About Job Visas in Australia for Immigrants
1. Can I apply for a job visa in Australia without a job offer?
In most cases, you need a job offer to apply for employer-sponsored visas like Subclass 482. However, independent skilled migration programs (e.g., Subclass 189) do not require a job offer.
2. Which jobs are in high demand in Australia?
Healthcare professionals, IT specialists, engineers, construction workers, chefs, teachers, and aged care workers are currently in high demand.
3. How long does it take to get a job visa for Australia?
Visa processing can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months depending on the subclass and individual application.
4. Can my family join me on a job-sponsored visa?
Yes, most job visas allow you to include dependents (spouse and children), and they can also work or study in Australia.
5. Can I get permanent residency through a sponsored job?
Yes. Visas like Subclass 186 (ENS) and 494 (Regional Sponsored) offer a pathway to permanent residency after fulfilling work and residency requirements.
