Australia Work Permit
Australia offers several pathways for foreign nationals seeking to work in the country, primarily under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482), Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). These pathways cater to various skill levels and employment needs. Below is an overview of the most common work permit pathways, including their eligibility criteria, requirements, processes, and associated costs.
1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482)
The TSS Visa (subclass 482) allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for temporary work in Australia. This visa is divided into two streams: the Short-Term stream and the Medium-Term stream, depending on the applicant’s occupation and the length of employment.
Eligibility Criteria
– Short-Term Stream: For occupations listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). The visa is valid for up to 2 years, and applicants may be eligible for one visa renewal.
– Medium-Term Stream: For occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The visa is valid for up to 4 years, and applicants may be eligible for permanent residency after 3 years in certain cases.
– The applicant must be nominated by an approved sponsor.
– The applicant must meet the skills and qualifications required for the occupation.
– Applicants must have adequate English proficiency.
– Applicants must meet health and character requirements.
Requirements
– Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a valid Australian employer.
– Skills Assessment: Certain occupations require a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
– English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
– Health and Character Checks: A medical exam and police checks may be required.
– Employer Nomination: The employer must be an approved sponsor and submit a nomination for the worker.
End-to-End Process
1. Job Offer: Secure a job offer from an eligible Australian employer.
2. Employer’s Sponsorship Approval: The employer must be an approved sponsor with the Australian government.
3. Visa Application: Once the employer nominates the foreign worker, the worker can apply for the TSS visa online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
4. Skills Assessment: If required, the applicant will need to undergo a skills assessment from a relevant authority.
5. Medical and Police Checks: Submit medical examination results and police clearance.
6. Visa Approval: If approved, the worker receives the TSS visa and can travel to Australia to begin work.
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: The processing time for the TSS visa can range from 2 to 6 months depending on the stream, the applicant’s occupation, and how quickly documents are submitted.
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | AUD 1,290 – AUD 2,640 |
| Employer Nomination Fee | AUD 420 – AUD 1,000 |
| Skills Assessment Fee (if applicable) | AUD 300 – AUD 1,000 |
| English Language Test Fee | AUD 300 – AUD 400 |
| Medical Examination Fee | AUD 200 – AUD 500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | AUD 2,500 – AUD 5,500 |
2. Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state/territory, or a family member. This visa allows individuals to live and work permanently in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
– The applicant must be invited to apply based on their points score in the Skilled Migration Program.
– The applicant must have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
– The applicant must pass the points test, which is based on factors like age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and other criteria.
– Applicants must be under the age of 45 when invited to apply.
– The applicant must meet health and character requirements.
Requirements
– Expression of Interest (EOI): The applicant must submit an EOI through SkillSelect, the online application system.
– Skills Assessment: Applicants must have their skills assessed by the relevant authority for their occupation.
– English Proficiency: Applicants must meet a minimum English proficiency level.
– Health and Character Checks: Applicants must undergo medical checks and provide police clearance.
End-to-End Process
1. Submit EOI: The applicant submits an EOI through SkillSelect.
2. Invitation to Apply: If the applicant meets the points threshold, they will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
3. Visa Application: Once invited, the applicant can submit a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Skills Assessment and English Test: Applicants must have their skills assessed and provide proof of English proficiency if required.
5. Health and Character Checks: Complete medical and police checks.
6. Visa Approval: If the application is successful, the applicant will receive the Skilled Independent Visa, allowing them to live and work in Australia permanently.
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | AUD 4,115 |
| Skills Assessment Fee | AUD 300 – AUD 1,000 |
| English Language Test Fee | AUD 300 – AUD 400 |
| Medical Examination Fee | AUD 200 – AUD 500 |
| Police Clearance | AUD 50 – AUD 100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | AUD 5,000 – AUD 6,500 |
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: The processing time for the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is usually 8 to 12 months, but it can vary based on the applicant’s circumstances.
3. Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) allows skilled workers who are nominated by their employer to apply for permanent residency in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
– The applicant must have a job offer from an Australian employer.
– The applicant must meet skill requirements and have relevant qualifications.
– The applicant must be under the age of 45.
– The applicant must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
– The applicant must meet health and character requirements.
Requirements
– Nomination by Employer: The employer must submit a nomination to the Department of Home Affairs.
– Skills Assessment: A skills assessment may be required for certain occupations.
– English Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency may be needed.
– Health and Character Checks: The applicant will undergo a medical exam and police clearance.
End-to-End Process
1. Employer Nomination: The employer nominates the worker for the subclass 186 visa.
2. Skills Assessment and Documentation: The applicant submits relevant documents, including qualifications, skills assessment (if applicable), and English proficiency.
3. Visa Application: The applicant submits a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Health and Character Checks: Complete medical and police checks.
5. Visa Approval: Once approved, the applicant receives permanent residency and can live and work in Australia.
COST BREAKDOWN
| Fee Type | Cost Estimate (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | AUD 4,240 |
| Nomination Fee | AUD 330 – AUD 1,000 |
| Skills Assessment Fee | AUD 300 – AUD 1,000 |
| English Language Test Fee | AUD 300 – AUD 400 |
| Medical Examination Fee | AUD 200 – AUD 500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | AUD 5,000 – AUD 6,500 |
Processing Time
– Total Processing Time: The processing time for the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) is usually 6 to 12 months.
Conclusion
Australia offers several work permit pathways depending on
the applicant’s qualifications and employment offer. The Temporary Skill
Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482) is ideal for temporary skilled work, the Skilled
Independent Visa (subclass 189) offers permanent residency through a
points-based system, and the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) allows
for permanent residency through employer nomination.
– Costs: The total cost ranges from AUD 2,500 to AUD 6,500, depending on the visa subclass, skills assessment, and additional fees.
– Time Taken: The processing time ranges from 2 to 12 months, depending on the visa subclass and the applicant’s circumstances.
Each visa has its specific requirements, and applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. Always consult with an immigration consultant or legal advisor to ensure a smooth application process.