Apply for
Employer Sponsorship
Employer sponsorship is one of the most important pathways for Australian businesses to hire skilled overseas workers or trainees when they cannot find suitable local talent. Through approved sponsorship programs, employers can support visa applications for workers who fill genuine workforce shortages and contribute to the ongoing growth of the business.
TYPES OF
Employer Sponsorship
| Feature | Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) | Temporary Activities Sponsor (TAS) |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsor Type | Legally recognised entities in Australia: Sole trader, Partnership, Proprietary company, Public company, Government department, Statutory authority, Not-for-profit, Educational institution | Eligible organisations such as Australian companies, government agencies, sporting organisations, and international organisations operating in Australia |
| Sponsorship Duration | 5 years | 5 years |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must demonstrate business is legally established and actively operating in Australia | Must be an eligible organisation, such as a company or government agency operating in Australia |
| Proof of Legal Establishment | ABN certificate, ASIC Business Names extract, or overseas registration evidence | Business registration documents, ABN/ACN, or Trust deed (Trustee must apply) |
| Proof of Current Operations | Larger business: Profit & loss statements, annual report. Small business: Tax return, bank statements | Evidence of active operation in Australia, similar to SBS |
| Sponsor Obligations | Must comply with sponsorship obligations, including employment conditions for sponsored workers | Must comply with sponsorship obligations, ensuring the training arrangement is realistic and structured |
| Renewal Option | Yes, before expiry | Yes, before expiry |
| Cost | From AUD 420.00 | From AUD 420.00 |
| Special Requirements | Must confirm strong record of employing local labour and commitment to non-discriminatory recruitment practices | Must ensure the trainee’s role and training arrangements are genuinely for training, with clear supervision and structured outcomes |
| Business Record | Must have a satisfactory business record with no adverse information | Must have a satisfactory business record and comply with Australian laws |
| Eligibility for Trusts | Trusts must apply via the Trustee (must be an eligible entity) | Trusts cannot apply; Trustee must apply and be approved as the sponsor |
| Support for Visa Applicants | Sponsors workers under Subclasses 482 and 494 | Sponsors individuals for approved temporary activities under Subclass 407 |
The Knowbal Sponsorship Process
Applying for the Employer Sponsorship can feel complicated, but Knowbal is here to support you at every stage. Here’s how we simplify the application process
Initial Consultation
We start by reviewing your study history, current visa status, and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate Visa. This personalised consultation helps us understand your situation and plan the best application approach for you.
Assigning an Expert Agent
Once we assess your case, you’ll be assigned a dedicated migration expert. This professional will be your main point of contact, guiding you through each step and answering your questions promptly.
Document Preparation
Gathering and organising your documents correctly is critical. Knowbal helps you prepare all necessary paperwork, including your Confirmation of Enrolment, academic transcripts, proof of completion, health insurance, and identity documents to avoid delays or errors.
Submitting the Application
We lodge your visa application on your behalf with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring everything complies with visa requirements and your information is accurately presented.
Ongoing Updates
Throughout the processing period, Knowbal monitors your application and keeps you informed. Should the Department request additional information, we will assist you promptly to ensure a smooth process.
FAQs
The approval process for sponsorship applications can take several weeks. It’s essential to submit all required documents promptly and ensure your application is complete to avoid delays. To prevent any gaps in your visa process, it’s recommended to apply well in advance and monitor the progress through your ImmiAccount.
Yes, but you’ll need to provide additional evidence to show your business can meet its sponsorship obligations. For new businesses, this could include a detailed business plan, financial statements, and proof of ongoing operations. If your business has changed its structure, the new entity may need to apply for its own sponsorship approval.
Even if you hire workers through a third-party agency, you still hold the responsibility for meeting all sponsorship obligations. This includes ensuring that the agency complies with employment laws and that the sponsored employees work under the terms of their visa. You should monitor your employees regularly to ensure compliance.
If your business undergoes structural changes, such as changing location or ownership, you must update your sponsorship details. This includes submitting a sponsorship change notification through ImmiAccount. Failing to update this information can lead to visa issues for your employees, including breaches of their visa conditions.
Yes, you can apply to renew your sponsorship even while visa applications are pending. However, if your sponsorship expires before your renewal is processed, any ongoing visa applications may be put on hold until the renewal is approved. To avoid disruptions, apply for renewal at least two months before your current sponsorship expires.
If your business is operating under a trust or franchise, you will need to submit the relevant legal documents, such as the trust deed. These documents must clearly outline the parties involved and your role within the structure. You may also need to provide supporting documents showing that the trust or franchise can meet sponsorship obligations.
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