6 Quick Tips About The Australian 457 Working Visa

Here at Ethos Migration we are constantly receiving enquiries from people wanting to work in Australia on a Temporary Work (Skilled) Subclass 457 visa.

However there are many misconceptions getting around regarding the process involved in being granted a 457 visa and what it really entails.

Below we will answer the top 5 questions we receive in relation to the 457 visa.

Number 1: How can I apply for a 457 visa to work in Australia?

The 457 visa is just one of many visas that is apart of the Australian Migration Programme. It allows a skilled worker to be sponsored by a business in Australia in an occupation that cannot be recruited locally.

Before you can make an application for a 457 visa you need to find an Australian employer that is willing to sponsor you to work in their business, your occupation also needs to be on the Skilled Occupations List (SOL) or the Consolidated Skilled Occupations List (CSOL).

If you have found an employer, and your occupation is on one of the above lists that is your first step.

Number 2: How can I find a business to sponsor me on a 457 visa?

This part of the process is entirely up to the prospective applicant and unfortunately there is no official way to answer this question.

You will need to conduct searches on websites like seek.com.au and various other websites that may advertise jobs for skilled migrants.

There are also companies that provide services to help migrants find sponsorship in their nominated occupation however these generally involve a fee.

Number 3: Can I renew my 457 visa after the first four years?

Yes! After your initial 4 years are coming to an end you can renew your 457 visa for another four years however it would be a good idea to look at your Permanent Residency (PR) options before deciding to renew your 457 visa as you may be eligible to apply for a Permanent Residency visa.

Number 4: What happens if my sponsor wants to stop sponsoring me?

Here at Ethos Migration we have come across many clients who have been terminated at some stage before their 457 visa expires.

In this case, the 457 visa holder has 90 days to find another sponsor, apply for another visa, or leave Australia.

It would be best to contact a migration agent if your employer terminates you or no longer wishes to sponsor you as you still have rights as an employee.

Number 5: Is the 457 visa a pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)?

For a number of people the 457 visa has been their pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia, and as mentioned above it can indeed be your pathway to stay in Australia permanently however all circumstances are different and it would be best to seek professional advice before deciding to apply for a Permanent Residency visa, before your 457 visa expires, or in any other circumstance.

If you would like further information on the Skilled 457 Working Visa, please contact us today.