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Learn about sponsoring

Visa options for skilled sponsored workers

​This table lets you compare sponsored visas for skilled workers. You can sponsor someone to come to Australia permanently or temporarily to fill a nominated skilled role.

If you want to sponsor someone to travel to Australia for other short-term work or activities, or for training, learn more about other ways of bringing someone.

VisaLengthUnique featuresSkill or qualification requirements
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS)(subclass 482)1-4 years
  • Workers can only work for you or an associated entity unless exempt from this requirement
  • Workers must work only in nominated occupation
  • You can't change the occupation without a new nomination
  • Worker must have the skills to perform the nominated occupation
  • Worker must have 2 years work experience in the occupation or a related field
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)Permanent
  • No geographical restrictions
  • The employment will be for at least a period of 2 years after visa grant
  • Direct Entry stream applicants require a skills assessment (unless exempt)
  • Relevant registration or licensing must be held if required

Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)5 years
  • Work must be in a designated regional area
  • The employment will be for at least a period of 5 years after visa grant
  • Employer Sponsored stream applicants require a skills assessment (unless exempt)
  • Relevant registration or licensing must be held if required

Other criteria apply to these visas. Consult the visa specific page for more complete details on the criteria for the grant of each visa type.