Working in Australia Requirements and Procedures 2025/2026

This detailed guide covers everything from eligibility criteria and visa types to employer sponsorship and job market insights — designed to help you confidently plan your move and maximize your chances of approval.

Whether you’re applying from Nigeria, India, the UK, or elsewhere, this article is tailored to answer your most pressing questions about how to work in Australia legally in 2025/2026.

Why Work in Australia?

Australia has always been a magnet for global talent, but in 2025 and 2026, the appeal is even stronger. The country continues to rank among the top destinations for foreign workers due to its economic stability, world-class healthcare system, inclusive society, and strong labor protections.

Here’s why now is one of the best times to pursue a work opportunity in Australia:

• Booming Job Market Across Multiple Sectors

Australia is facing labor shortages in critical industries, especially:

• Healthcare and Nursing
• Engineering and Construction
• Information Technology
• Aged Care and Disability Services
• Agriculture and Trades

This demand means more job opportunities and faster visa processing for qualified foreign workers.

• High Salaries and Strong Worker Protections

Australia offers one of the highest minimum wages in the world — over AUD $23 per hour (as of 2025). Skilled professionals can earn between AUD $70,000 and $130,000 annually depending on the role and location.

In addition, workers benefit from:

• Fair Work Ombudsman protection
• Paid sick leave and annual leave
• Superannuation (retirement savings contributions)
• Safe and inclusive work environments

• Clear Pathways to Permanent Residency

Many Australian work visas are designed with a clear PR (Permanent Residency) pathway, especially those under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program or employer-sponsored streams. This means you can build a long-term life in Australia after gaining work experience.

• Multicultural and Welcoming Society

Australia is home to immigrants from over 200 countries. In cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, you’ll find large communities of Nigerians, Indians, Filipinos, Chinese, and other migrant groups. This multiculturalism makes settling in easier and more comfortable.

• Global Recognition of Australian Work Experience

Working in Australia adds significant value to your career. Employers around the world respect Australian qualifications and work experience — especially in tech, healthcare, and engineering fields.

Cost of Applying for a Work Visa (2025/2026)

Relocating to Australia for work involves more than just airfare. You’ll need to budget carefully for the visa application costs, supporting document fees, language tests, and possibly migration agent services.

Below is a full breakdown of what to expect financially during the process in 2025/2026:

1. Visa Application Fees (in AUD)

Visa Type	Base Application Fee (Primary Applicant)
Subclass 482 (TSS) – Short-term	AUD 1,455
Subclass 482 – Medium-term	AUD 3,035
Subclass 186 (ENS – Permanent)	AUD 4,640
Subclass 189 (Independent Skilled)	AUD 4,640
Subclass 190 (State Nominated)	AUD 4,640
Subclass 491 (Regional Skilled)	AUD 4,640
Subclass 485 (Graduate Visa)	AUD 1,895
Working Holiday (Subclass 417/462)	AUD 635

Note: Fees increase slightly every July 1st, so always double-check the exact amount before paying.

2. Additional Applicant Fees (Spouse & Children)

If you’re applying with family members, extra charges apply:

• Adult Dependent (18+): AUD 2,320 to AUD 2,320+
• Child Dependent (under 18): AUD 1,160 to AUD 1,160+

This applies to most skilled and sponsored visa types.

3. Skills Assessment Fees

These vary depending on the assessing authority:

Assessment Body	Approximate Fee (AUD)
Engineers Australia	$1,000–$1,200
Australian Computer Society (ACS)	$500–$600
VETASSESS	$880–$1,000
ANMAC (Nursing)	$395–$515

Fees may increase if additional documents are requested.

4. English Language Test Fees

Depending on the provider, expect the following:

Test Name	Fee Range (AUD)
IELTS	$410 – $445
TOEFL iBT	$300 – $350
PTE	$400 – $450

You’ll need to pay the full amount for each attempt, so aim to pass on the first try.

5. Police Clearance Certificates

Varies by country — typically:

• AUD 30–$150 per country
• Must be less than 12 months old at the time of application

6. Medical Exams

Costs depend on your country of residence and tests required. On average:

• Single applicant: AUD 300 – $500
• With family: Can reach AUD 1,000+ total
• Tests may include chest X-rays, blood tests, and general physical exams

7. Migration Agent or Immigration Lawyer (Optional)

Hiring a professional can help reduce stress — but adds to your budget:

• Basic consultation: AUD 150 – $300
• Full visa service: AUD 2,000 – $5,000+ depending on complexity

Tip: If you’re confident and well-informed, you can lodge the application yourself using the official ImmiAccount portal.

8. Other Expenses to Consider

• Document translation fees: If your documents are not in English
• Notarization fees: For certified copies
• Courier/Postage: If required for mailing hard copies
• Biometrics collection: For some countries (AUD 100 – $150)

Total Estimated Cost for a Single Skilled Worker (Subclass 189 or 190)

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (AUD)
Visa Fee	4,640
Skills Assessment	800
English Test	400
Medical Exam	350
Police Checks	100
Misc (docs, postage, etc.)	150
Total (without agent)	~6,440

Add extra for family members or if hiring a migration agent.

Companies That Sponsor Work Visas in Australia (2025/2026)

In Australia, not every company can legally sponsor foreign workers. Only businesses approved by the Department of Home Affairs as Standard Business Sponsors (SBS) can offer visa sponsorships. Fortunately, hundreds of employers across various industries actively hire skilled migrants every year.

Below is a breakdown of top companies that consistently sponsor visas and the industries they belong to:

1. Technology & IT Companies

Why they sponsor: There’s a constant demand for software engineers, developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts in Australia — and not enough local supply.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Companies:

• Atlassian – Roles in software development, product, engineering
• Canva – Hiring designers, backend/frontend engineers, data scientists
• IBM Australia – Cloud services, tech consulting, and AI positions
• Accenture Australia – IT consulting, SAP, and cloud infrastructure roles
• Infosys Australia – Large-scale IT and enterprise implementation projects

Visas used: Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage), 186 (Employer Nomination)

2. Healthcare & Aged Care Providers

Why they sponsor: Australia faces serious shortages of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and aged care workers — especially in rural and regional areas.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Companies:

• Healthscope – Large network of private hospitals
• Bupa Australia – Health insurance and aged care support
• Ramsay Health Care – One of the largest private hospital networks
• Sonic Healthcare – Pathology and diagnostic services
• Opal Healthcare – Aged care roles across the country

Visas used: Subclass 482, 186 (Permanent), 494 (Regional Employer Sponsored)

3. Construction & Engineering Firms

Why they sponsor: Skilled tradesmen, civil engineers, and construction supervisors are in short supply — especially in infrastructure and mining projects.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Companies:

• CPB Contractors – Large-scale transport, energy, and building projects
• Downer Group – Engineering and infrastructure services
• Fulton Hogan – Civil construction and heavy infrastructure
• UGL Limited – Rail, defence, utilities, and energy projects
• Laing O’Rourke – Innovative construction and design operations

Visas used: Subclass 482, 186, 494

4. Agriculture, Farming & Meat Processing

Why they sponsor: Seasonal and rural work is hard to fill locally, so employers actively seek international workers.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Employers:

• Thomas Foods International – Meat processing and food production
• JBS Australia – One of the largest beef producers in the country
• Costa Group – Horticulture (berries, citrus, mushrooms)
• Teys Australia – Meat processing in regional areas
• Rivalea Australia – Pork production and agricultural work

Visas used: Subclass 482 (short-term), 494 (regional), 403 (seasonal)

5. Mining & Energy Companies

Why they sponsor: Engineers, geologists, and plant operators are in demand across Western Australia and Queensland.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Companies:

• BHP – One of the world’s largest mining companies
• Rio Tinto – Iron ore, bauxite, and aluminum projects
• Fortescue Metals Group – Heavy mining and innovation in renewables
• Santos – Oil and gas engineering roles
• Woodside Energy – Large offshore and gas infrastructure

Visas used: Subclass 482, 494, and permanent employer-sponsored visas

6. Education & Research Institutions

Why they sponsor: Demand for international expertise in academia, STEM, and research is ongoing.

Top Visa-Sponsoring Employers:

• University of Sydney
• University of Melbourne
• Monash University
• CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation)
• TAFE NSW and other regional TAFEs

Visas used: Subclass 186 (direct entry or temporary transition stream)

7. Hospitality & Tourism (Regional Focus)

Why they sponsor: Hotels, resorts, and restaurants in regional and rural towns often struggle to hire locally.

Top Employers That Sponsor:

• Accor Hotels – Regional hotel managers, chefs, and F&B supervisors
• Crown Resorts – Casinos, restaurants, luxury accommodation
• The Star Entertainment Group – Entertainment, hospitality services
• Merivale Group – Premium hospitality group in Sydney
• Outback lodges and regional pubs – Often seek chefs and managers

Visas used: Subclass 482, 494 (for regional locations), and 186

How to Find Sponsored Jobs in 2025/2026

• Use filters like “Visa Sponsorship” on job sites: SEEK, Indeed, and LinkedIn
• Search the Register of Approved Sponsors on the Home Affairs website
• Apply directly on company career portals under the “Careers” section
• Consider contacting a registered migration agent who works with employers

Pro Tip: Most companies prefer candidates who are job-ready (skills assessed, English test done, resume polished). Make it easy for them to say YES by completing your paperwork before applying.

General Requirements to Work Legally in Australia

Before you can work in Australia in 2025 or 2026, there are non-negotiable requirements every foreign worker must meet. These conditions are enforced by the Australian Government and the Department of Home Affairs, and failing to comply could result in visa denial, deportation, or even a ban from re-entry.

Let’s break down the core legal requirements:

1. A Valid Work Visa

No foreign national can legally work in Australia without holding a valid visa that permits work. Depending on your occupation, skills, and sponsorship situation, you’ll need to apply for one of several work visa categories (we’ll explore these in the next section).

Some of the most common options include:

• Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482)
• Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189)
• Employer Nomination Scheme visa (Subclass 186)

2. Job Offer or Nomination (For Sponsored Visas)

If you are applying through an employer-sponsored stream, you must have a job offer from an Australian employer who is willing to nominate you for the role. For general skilled migration, you may need a state or territory nomination based on local demand.

3. Occupation Must Be on a Skilled Occupation List

Australia maintains multiple lists of occupations that are eligible for migration:

• Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
• Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• Regional Occupation List (ROL)

Your job must appear on one of these lists to qualify for a work visa.

4. Skills and Qualifications

You must prove that you have relevant academic qualifications and work experience for the role you are applying for. For certain professions, a formal skills assessment by a recognized Australian authority is required.

5. English Language Proficiency

You must meet minimum English requirements. This usually means taking a recognized English test such as:

• IELTS
• TOEFL iBT
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge English

6. Health and Character Requirements

To protect public safety, the Australian government requires all applicants to:

• Undergo a medical examination
• Provide a police clearance certificate from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months

These checks ensure that you do not pose a health or security risk.

7. Proof of Financial Capacity (For Certain Visas)

Some visa types (especially temporary ones) may require proof that you can support yourself financially upon arrival, at least until your first paycheck or employment confirmation.

Meeting all of these requirements is the foundation for your work visa approval. Next, we’ll go deeper into the visa options available and how to choose the right one.

Work Visa Categories Explained

Australia offers a wide range of work visas to cater to different types of foreign workers — from skilled professionals and tradespeople to temporary workers and global executives. Each visa type has specific criteria, processing times, and benefits, so choosing the right category is crucial for a smooth migration journey.

Below are the main visa types you should consider in 2025/2026:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) – “TSS Visa”

This is the most common employer-sponsored visa. It allows skilled workers to fill jobs that cannot be filled by Australian citizens or permanent residents.

• Who It’s For: Workers with a confirmed job offer from an approved Australian employer
• Validity: Up to 2 years (short-term stream) or 4 years (medium-term stream)
• Pathway to PR: Yes, for medium-term stream
• Key Requirements: Skills assessment (in some cases), English test, job on occupation list

2. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

This is a points-tested visa for skilled workers without sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member.

• Who It’s For: Highly skilled professionals with occupations on the MLTSSL
• Validity: Permanent residency
• Pathway to PR: Already a PR visa
• Key Requirements: Minimum 65 points, skills assessment, English proficiency, invitation to apply

3. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

This is also a points-based visa, but it requires a state or territory nomination.

• Who It’s For: Skilled workers whose occupation is needed in a particular Australian state
• Validity: Permanent residency
• Pathway to PR: Direct PR
• Key Requirements: State nomination, 65+ points, skills assessment, English test

4. Regional Work Visa – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Subclass 491

This visa encourages workers to live and work in regional areas of Australia.

• Who It’s For: Applicants nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a family member in regional Australia
• Validity: 5 years (with pathway to PR after 3 years)
• Pathway to PR: Yes, through the 191 visa
• Key Requirements: Points-tested, occupation on relevant regional list, nomination/sponsorship

5. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186

A permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer.

• Who It’s For: Workers with long-term roles in Australia
• Validity: Permanent residency
• Pathway to PR: Direct
• Key Requirements: Nomination, relevant skills, at least 3 years work experience, English proficiency

6. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

For international students who recently graduated from an Australian institution and want to stay and work temporarily.

• Who It’s For: International graduates
• Validity: 18 months to 5 years, depending on qualification
• Pathway to PR: Possible, via GSM or employer sponsorship
• Key Requirements: Recent Australian qualification, age under 50, English test

7. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462

For young adults from eligible countries to travel and work in Australia temporarily.

• Who It’s For: Applicants aged 18–30 (up to 35 for some countries)
• Validity: 12 months, extendable
• Pathway to PR: Not directly, but may lead to other visa options
• Key Requirements: Passport from eligible country, health insurance, sufficient funds

Each visa type serves different purposes. The best fit depends on your qualifications, job offer, age, and long-term goals.

Key Documents You’ll Need

To work legally in Australia in 2025/2026, you’ll need to prepare a set of essential documents for your visa application. These documents prove your identity, skills, experience, and eligibility — and incomplete or incorrect paperwork is one of the top reasons for visa delays or refusals.

Here’s a breakdown of the core documents you must prepare:

1. Valid Passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into Australia.

• Ensure your name and personal details match your other documents exactly.

2. Resume/CV in Australian Format

• A clean, well-structured CV with chronological job history and clear descriptions of duties and achievements.
• Make sure it’s aligned with Australian standards (concise, no photos, include referees if available).

3. Educational Certificates

• Degree(s), diploma(s), and academic transcripts from recognized institutions.
• If not in English, provide certified translations.

4. Proof of Work Experience

• Official reference letters or experience certificates from past employers.
• Must include position title, job responsibilities, full-time/part-time status, and duration.
• Letters should be on company letterhead and signed.

5. Skills Assessment Report

• Required for most skilled visa applicants (like Subclass 189, 190, or 482).
• Issued by a recognized assessing authority in Australia (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS, ANMAC).
• This confirms your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.

6. English Language Test Results

• Must be from an approved test (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, etc.).
• Must meet the minimum band scores required for your visa type.
• Test results are generally valid for 3 years from the date of issue.

7. Police Clearance Certificates

• A criminal background check is required from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
• These are also known as “character documents.”

8. Medical Examination Results

• Conducted by an approved panel physician.
• Includes chest X-ray, physical exam, and blood tests to screen for communicable diseases.
• Required for most temporary and all permanent visa types.

9. Job Offer Letter or Nomination (If Sponsored)

• If applying under a sponsored visa (e.g., Subclass 482 or 186), you’ll need:
  • A formal job offer letter from the employer
  • A copy of the nomination approval from the employer’s side

10. Financial Evidence (If Required)

• Some visas require proof that you can support yourself.
• This may include bank statements, proof of income, or sponsorship letters.

Being fully prepared with these documents not only speeds up your application but also boosts your credibility as a serious applicant.

English Language Proficiency Rules

English proficiency is a mandatory requirement for most Australian work visas. The Australian government uses English test scores to determine whether an applicant can safely and effectively communicate in the workplace and broader society.

In 2025/2026, English test rules remain strict, and your scores can make or break your visa approval.

Here’s what you need to know:

Accepted English Tests

You can prove your English skills using results from any of the following approved tests:

Test Name	Full Form
IELTS	International English Language Testing System
TOEFL iBT	Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet-based)
PTE Academic	Pearson Test of English Academic
Cambridge English	CAE (C1 Advanced)
OET (Healthcare only)	Occupational English Test

Minimum Score Requirements (By Visa Type)

Visa Type	English Level Required	Example (IELTS)
Subclass 482 (TSS) – Short-term	Vocational English	5.0 overall, 4.5 min in each band
Subclass 482 – Medium-term	Competent English	6.0 in each band
Subclass 189 / 190 / 491	Competent English	6.0 in each band
Subclass 186 (ENS)	Competent or higher	6.0+ depending on stream
Subclass 485 (Graduate Visa)	Competent English	6.0 in each band

Note: “Functional English” is required for dependents in some visa subclasses — usually proven through secondary education in English-speaking countries.

Who Is Exempt from Testing?

You may be exempt from taking an English test if you:

• Hold a passport from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, or New Zealand
• Completed at least 5 years of education in English at secondary or tertiary level
• Are applying for certain visa streams (check the specific subclass)

How Long Are Test Results Valid?

• English test scores are valid for 3 years from the date of the test.
• Ensure your scores are still valid at the time of visa lodgment, not just when you take the test.

Tips to Improve Your Score

• Take practice exams under real test conditions.
• Consider a short-term English prep course (online or in-person).
• Focus on all four components: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
• Use official practice materials from the test provider’s website.

Language proficiency is one of the few requirements you can actively improve before applying. If your scores fall short, retake the test — it’s worth the effort for a smoother visa approval process.

The Visa Application Process – Step-by-Step (2025/2026)

Applying for a work visa to Australia in 2025 or 2026 is a structured process. Each step must be followed carefully to avoid costly delays or rejections. Whether you’re applying independently or with employer sponsorship, the core process typically follows this timeline:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before anything else, use the Australian Government’s visa eligibility tool or consult a migration agent to confirm which visa best suits your:

• Occupation
• Skills and experience
• English ability
• Long-term plans (temporary or permanent stay)

Make sure your job is on the appropriate Skilled Occupation List.

Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

Prepare the key documents listed in Section 4:

• Resume/CV
• Academic certificates
• Work references
• Skills assessment results
• English test scores
• Police clearance
• Passport scans
• Medicals (if ready)

Tip: Scan and save all documents as high-quality PDFs — they’ll be uploaded during your online application.

Step 3: Complete Your Skills Assessment (If Required)

For most skilled visas (like Subclass 189, 190, or 482), you need to get your qualifications and experience assessed by an authorized skills assessment body (e.g., Engineers Australia, ACS, Vetassess).

• Apply online on the assessor’s website
• Pay the assessment fee
• Wait for the results (usually takes 8–12 weeks)

You must have this result before submitting your visa application.

Step 4: Take the English Language Test

Book and complete one of the accepted English tests (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE, etc.). Make sure:

• Your score meets the required level
• The test was taken within the last 3 years
• The test provider sends you a copy of the official result

Step 5: Get Nominated or Sponsored (If Applicable)

• For sponsored visas, your Australian employer must first lodge a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs.
• For state-nominated visas (Subclass 190/491), you must apply for nomination via the state or territory’s migration portal.
• Once approved, you’ll receive an invitation to apply.

Step 6: Submit Your Visa Application

Use your ImmiAccount on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to lodge your application:

• Fill in your details carefully
• Upload all required documents
• Pay the visa application fee (varies depending on visa type and applicants)

After submission, you’ll receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) to track your application status.

Step 7: Complete Health and Character Checks

After lodging your application, the Department may ask you to:

• Undergo a medical examination (via approved clinics)
• Submit your police clearance certificates
• Respond to any requests for further information

This step ensures you meet the health and character requirements.

Step 8: Wait for a Decision

Processing times vary based on the visa subclass and application volume. On average:

• Subclass 482: 1–3 months
• Subclass 189/190/491: 3–8 months
• Subclass 186: 3–6 months

You can track the status of your application via your ImmiAccount dashboard.

Step 9: Receive Visa Grant Notification

If your visa is approved, you’ll receive an official Visa Grant Notice via email. This will include:

• Your visa grant number
• Entry conditions
• Duration and expiry dates
• Work rights and other obligations

Step 10: Travel to Australia and Start Working

Once your visa is granted, you’re ready to make travel arrangements and start your job in Australia. Don’t forget:

• Book flights in advance

• Organize temporary accommodation for arrival

• Bring printed copies of your visa, job offer, and other important documents

This is the core process from start to finish — and while it may seem overwhelming, following these steps methodically makes it totally manageable.

Common Mistakes That Delay or Deny Your Australian Work Visa (2025/2026)

Even highly qualified applicants can get stuck or rejected due to simple errors in their visa applications. Australian immigration is strict and detail-oriented — so one small mistake can lead to delays or even a complete visa refusal.

Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid when applying for a work visa to Australia in 2025/2026:

1. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documents

Missing documents, outdated certificates, or poorly scanned copies will cause processing delays. Worse, your application may be deemed invalid.

Avoid this by:

• Following the document checklist for your specific visa
• Double-checking names, dates, and spellings across all documents
• Ensuring translations (if any) are certified by accredited professionals

2. Failing to Meet English Language Requirements

Many applicants assume their degree or work experience is enough — but most work visas require an official English test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).

Avoid this by:

• Taking the test early and meeting the minimum band scores required
• Uploading your valid results before submitting the application
• Retesting early if you fall short

3. Choosing the Wrong Visa Type

Some applicants apply for general skilled migration when they actually need employer sponsorship, or they use the wrong stream (short-term vs. medium-term).

Avoid this by:

• Understanding the purpose of each visa
• Reviewing your occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
• Seeking advice if unsure (from MARA-registered agents)

4. Incorrect Points Calculation (for Points-Based Visas)

For subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas, your points must be calculated accurately — including age, work experience, education, and English skills.

Avoid this by:

• Using the official DHA points calculator
• Claiming only what can be proven with documents
• Including skills assessment and language scores before submitting EOI

5. Delays in Police Certificates or Medical Exams

Some applicants wait until they are asked before arranging police clearances or health checks, causing major delays.

Avoid this by:

• Pre-booking medicals and requesting police certificates early
• Ensuring all documents are less than 12 months old

6. Outdated or Misleading Resume (CV)

Australian employers expect clean, fact-based CVs. Inflated job titles or unclear dates raise red flags — especially during background checks.

Avoid this by:

• Following the Australian CV format
• Stating only verifiable experience
• Matching your CV to your visa claims and work references

7. Inconsistent Information Between Documents

For example, your visa form says you worked until 2023, but your employer reference letter says 2022 — that’s a problem.

Avoid this by:

• Reviewing every detail across your CV, visa application, and letters
• Explaining any gaps or inconsistencies clearly in your application

8. Submitting Fake or Forged Documents

Australia uses strict verification tools. Submitting fake payslips, degrees, or test scores will lead to instant rejection and a 3–10 year ban.

Avoid this by:

• Being 100% honest
• Submitting only authentic documents

9. Not Using the ImmiAccount Properly

Technical errors like missing attachments, failing to hit “submit,” or not responding to follow-up emails can cost you the visa.

Avoid this by:

• Learning how to use the [ImmiAccount portal]
• Regularly checking email and status updates
• Saving all confirmation receipts after each upload

10. Not Understanding Bridging Visas or Expiry Dates

If you’re applying from within Australia, staying beyond your visa without proper bridging can result in serious issues.

Avoid this by:

• Applying early (before current visa expires)
• Understanding Bridging Visa A (BVA) or Bridging Visa B (BVB) rules
• Avoiding unnecessary travel during processing

Pro Tip: Always Keep Copies of Everything

Before clicking “submit,” save all uploaded files, receipts, and reference numbers. You’ll thank yourself later if any disputes arise.

What to Do After You Receive Your Australian Work Visa

Getting your Australian work visa approved is a huge achievement — but your journey isn’t over just yet. There are a few important steps to take before and after arriving in Australia to ensure a smooth transition into work and life.

Here’s what to do once you receive that golden visa grant letter:

1. Review Your Visa Grant Notice

Your visa grant letter contains essential details such as:

• Visa subclass and stream
• Validity dates (start and end)
• Work rights and any restrictions
• Location-based conditions (if it’s a regional visa)
• Entry deadlines or “first entry” date

Action: Double-check everything. If you spot an error, contact immigration immediately.

2. Inform Your Employer or Recruiter

Let your sponsoring employer or recruitment agent know you’ve received your visa. They’ll typically:

• Schedule your start date
• Finalize onboarding paperwork
• Assist with your travel or relocation plan (if offered)

Some employers might even offer temporary accommodation or airport pickup — so ask!

3. Book Your Flight to Australia

Use your grant letter to plan your flight. Make sure you enter Australia before the “first entry date” mentioned in your visa.

Tip: If you’re not ready to move right away, you can enter briefly to activate your visa and return later — but this depends on your employer’s needs.

4. Arrange Initial Accommodation

Before you arrive, book a short-term stay (Airbnb, hotel, or hostel) for at least 2–4 weeks. This gives you breathing space to find a long-term rental without pressure.

You can also explore:

• Student housing (if you’re near a university)
• Shared apartments or room rentals on platforms like Flatmates.com.au
• Temporary employee accommodation (check with your company)

5. Set Up Your Finances

To work in Australia, you’ll need:

• Australian bank account (Commonwealth, Westpac, ANZ, NAB)
• Tax File Number (TFN) — needed for salary payment and tax
• Superannuation account — for retirement savings

Action: Apply for your TFN through the ATO website after arriving. Your bank may help you with this too.

6. Register for Medicare (if eligible)

Some work visa holders (especially on the 482, 186, or 491 visa) may be eligible for Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare).

Action: Visit a Medicare office with your passport, visa grant letter, and ID documents to register.

If you’re not eligible, consider private health insurance to meet visa conditions.

7. Buy a Local SIM Card and Mobile Plan

Having an Australian number is important for:

• Job and employer contact
• Bank and TFN verification
• Accessing services like MyGov and rental applications

Top providers: Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, Amaysim

8. Start Looking for Long-Term Housing

Rental competition is high in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, so start searching early.

You’ll typically need:

• 100 points of ID (passport, visa, bank card, etc.)
• Proof of income or employment
• References from previous landlords (if possible)

Use rental websites like Domain and realestate.com.au to find listings.

9. Understand Your Workplace Rights

All workers in Australia — local or foreign — are protected under Fair Work laws.

You have the right to:

• A written employment contract
• Minimum wages and leave entitlements
• Safe working conditions
• Protection from exploitation

Action: Visit [Fair Work Ombudsman] to read up on your rights. Never sign a contract you don’t understand.

10. Join Support Communities

Relocating can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Australia has many support networks for new migrants, such as:

• Cultural associations
• Local Facebook groups
• Meetup events for professionals
• Migrant resource centres in major cities

These communities help with job tips, housing referrals, and emotional support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Australia (2025/2026)

Q1. Can I apply for a work visa without a job offer in Australia?
A: Yes, if you apply for a skilled independent visa (subclass 189) or a state-nominated visa (subclass 190/491). These are points-based visas that do not require employer sponsorship but do require a positive skills assessment and enough points.

Q2. Which jobs are in high demand in Australia for foreign workers in 2025?
A: Top in-demand roles include:

• Registered nurses and aged care workers
• Construction managers and tradespeople
• Software developers and data analysts
• Engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical)
• Teachers and early childhood educators
• Accountants and financial auditors
• Chefs and hospitality professionals
  These occupations often appear on the Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL).

Q3. How long does it take to process a work visa for Australia?
A: Processing time varies by visa:

• Temporary Skill Shortage (482): 1–3 months
• Skilled Independent (189): 3–8 months
• Employer Nomination Scheme (186): 3–6 months
• Regional visas (491, 494): 4–12 months
  Delays can occur due to missing documents or medical/police clearance wait times.

Q4. Do I need to take IELTS for an Australian work visa?
A: Yes, for most visas. You must show proof of competent English through IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge exams. Some exemptions apply for passport holders from native English-speaking countries.

Q5. Can my family come with me on a work visa?
A: Absolutely. Most Australian work visas allow you to bring your spouse and children as secondary applicants. They may also have work and study rights depending on your visa subclass.

Q6. What happens if I lose my job after moving to Australia on a sponsored visa?
A: If you’re on a sponsored visa like the 482, you must:

• Find a new employer willing to sponsor you within 60 days
• Apply for another visa
• Or leave the country before your visa expires

If you’re on a permanent visa like 186 or 189, losing your job doesn’t affect your visa status.

Q7. How much money do I need before relocating to Australia?
A: It’s smart to have at least AUD $5,000–$10,000 saved before relocating to cover:

• Flights
• Temporary housing
• Bond/rent for long-term housing
• Transport and basic setup
  Even if your employer sponsors your visa, they may not cover relocation costs.

Q8. Can I switch jobs while on a work visa?
A: If you’re on a sponsored visa (like 482), you can’t change employers freely — the new employer must be an approved sponsor and nominate you again.
However, if you’re on a skilled independent (189) or permanent (186) visa, you can switch employers anytime.

Q9. What’s the minimum salary for employer-sponsored visas in Australia?
A: As of 2025, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) is AUD $70,000 per year (base salary). Your sponsoring employer must pay you this minimum to meet visa conditions.

Q10. Can I apply for permanent residency after working in Australia?
A: Yes, many temporary visas lead to permanent residency. For example:

• TSS visa → ENS 186
• Regional 491 visa → 191 permanent visa
• 482 visa (Medium-term stream) → PR after 3 years

Eligibility depends on your occupation, employer support, and visa type.

Pro Tip: Always consult a MARA-registered migration agent if you’re unsure about any step. They help avoid costly mistakes and improve your chances of approval.