Australia Employer Sponsored Visa Guide for Africans 2025

Australia has two main employer-sponsored visa streams: the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 for temporary workers, and the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 for permanent residency. Australia faces critical shortages in healthcare, engineering, and trades.

Step-by-step guide

1. 1

   Find an approved sponsor

   Your Australian employer must be an Approved Sponsor (Standard Business Sponsor). Many large employers, hospitals, and mining companies hold this status.

2. 2

   Check the occupation list

   Your occupation must appear on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) for TSS 482 or ENS 186.

3. 3

   Skills Assessment

   Most occupations require a skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority (e.g. ANMAC for nurses, Engineers Australia for engineers) before you can apply.

4. 4

   English language requirement

   Generally IELTS 5.0 overall (TSS 482) or 6.0 (ENS 186). Healthcare roles often require higher scores.

5. 5

   Employer nominates you

   Your employer lodges a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs. You then apply for the visa.

6. 6

   Application & processing

   TSS 482: AUD$3,115 (2 years) or $5,765 (4 years). ENS 186: AUD$4,640. Processing: 2–8 months.

Frequently asked questions