A Comprehensive Guide to Employer-Sponsored Visas in Australia: 407, 482 & 186 Explained
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 8

If you're an international student or skilled worker exploring long-term career opportunities in Australia, employer-sponsored visas could be your ideal pathway. In this article, we break down the eligibility requirements for the three most common employer-sponsored visas: the 407 Training Visa, 482 Skills in Demand Visa, and the 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa.
Understanding Employer-Sponsored Visas
Employer-sponsored visas are essential for those who want to work in Australia. These visas allow employers to sponsor skilled workers, enabling them to contribute to Australia's economy. The three primary types are the 407 Visa, 482 Visa, and 186 Visa. Each has its unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and career stages.
407 Training Visa
The Subclass 407 Training Visa is designed for individuals who need on-the-job training to enhance their skills.
Key Requirements:
Valid for up to 2 years.
Requires 12 months of relevant experience in the past 24 months.
No minimum salary threshold.
The employer must be an approved temporary activities sponsor.
This visa is ideal for professionals seeking structured training to improve their skills in Australia.
482 Skills in Demand Visa
The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa allows skilled workers to be sponsored by Australian employers in occupations that are in high demand.
Key Requirements:
Enables work for up to 4 years.
Requires 1 year of work experience in your nominated occupation.
The occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
Must meet the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) of $73,150 per year.
This visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for skilled workers looking for long-term employment in Australia.
186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa: Permanent Residency
The Subclass 186 ENS Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are sponsored by an Australian employer.
Three Streams Under the 186 Visa:
Direct Entry Stream – For applicants with 3 years of work experience in their nominated occupation.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream – For workers with 2 years on a 482 or 457 visa under the same employer.
Labour Agreement Stream – For occupations covered by an industry-specific agreement (e.g., aged care).
Key Requirements:
Applicants must meet the CSIT of $73,150 per year.
Employer sponsorship is required.
This visa is the best option for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in Australia through employer nomination.
Which Employer-Sponsored Visa Is Right for You?
Each visa offers unique benefits based on your career stage, job type, and long-term goals. Whether you want to gain work experience, transition to permanent residency, or migrate long-term with employer support, there’s a visa option that fits your needs.
Need training in Australia? Subclass 407 Training Visa
Looking for a job with a PR pathway? Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa
Ready for PR through employer sponsorship? Subclass 186 ENS Visa
Explore Your Options
It's crucial to choose the right visa to ensure a smooth transition into your career in Australia. Each visa has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. Therefore, understanding your options is vital.
Benefits of Employer-Sponsored Visas
Employer-sponsored visas provide significant advantages. These include job security and the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in the competitive Australian job market. Additionally, by working with an employer, you can create essential networking opportunities that may lead to permanent residency.
Seek Professional Guidance
Navigating Australian employer-sponsored visas can be challenging. Whether you’re looking for workplace training, temporary employment, or permanent residency, the right guidance is essential. Our registered migration agents can assess your eligibility, guide you through the application process, and help maximize your chances of a successful application.
For those interested in exploring their options further, consider contacting us. We offer personalized consultations to help you find the best visa solutions suitable for your career aspirations.
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