Work in Australia with Employer Sponsored Visas and IELTS Guide

Australia has become a top choice for skilled professionals looking to build a rewarding career while enjoying a high standard of living. With a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities, many people from Asia, the UK, South America, and South Africa are choosing to make Australia their new home. If you're considering working here, an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia could be your best option for both temporary and permanent residency.

At IME Advisors, we help skilled workers and businesses connect through Employer Sponsored Visas. In this blog, we'll explain the different visa options available, along with the IELTS requirements you need to meet.

What is an Employer Sponsored Visa?

An Employer Sponsored Visa allows skilled professionals to work for an approved employer in Australia. These visas are designed to address skill shortages by bringing in qualified workers from overseas. Some of these visas also offer a pathway to permanent residency.

Types of Employer-Sponsored Visas

There are several types of Employer Sponsored Visas in Australia, each with its eligibility requirements:

1. 1.Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa - Subclass 186

This visa grants permanent residency and allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely. There are three streams:

• Direct Entry Stream: Suitable for applicants with at least three years of experience in an eligible skilled occupation.
• Labour Agreement Stream: For those who have an employer with a valid labour agreement.
• Temporary Residence Transition Stream: Available for those who have worked full-time for their sponsoring employer for at least three years on a 457, TSS, or related bridging visa.

2. 2.Temporary Skilled Shortage (TSS) Visa - Subclass 482

This visa allows you to work in Australia temporarily. There are two main streams:

• Short-term Stream: Grants a stay of up to two years (or five years for Hong Kong passport holders). Your occupation must be on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
• Medium-term Stream: Grants a stay of up to four years (or five years for Hong Kong passport holders). Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skilled List (MLTSSL).

3. 3.Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa - Subclass 494

This visa is for skilled workers who want to work in designated regional areas of Australia. It allows you to stay for up to five years and provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years.

IELTS Requirements for Employer-Sponsored Visas

English proficiency is an essential requirement for most Employer Sponsored Visas in Australia. The IELTS test is widely used to assess English skills. Here’s what you need to know about the language requirements:

• Subclass 186 Visa (Direct Entry Stream & Temporary Residence Transition Stream): You must have a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).
• Subclass 186 (Labour Agreement Stream): English requirements vary based on the employer’s agreement with the Australian government. Check with your employer for specific details.
• Subclass 482 Visa (Short-term Stream): You need an overall IELTS score of 5.0, with a minimum of 4.5 in each component.
• Subclass 482 Visa (Medium-term Stream): You must have an IELTS score of 5.0 in all components.
• Subclass 494 Visa: Requires an IELTS score of 6.0 in each component.

If you’re including family members in your visa application, they must also meet the required English language standards. If they don’t, an extra charge may apply.

Get Expert Help with Your Visa Application

Applying for an Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia involves multiple steps, including securing a job offer, meeting eligibility requirements, and providing the necessary documentation. Immigration laws can change frequently, making it important to stay up to date.

At IME Advisors, we guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your application is accurate and meets all requirements. Whether you’re aiming for a temporary visa or permanent residency, we are here to help.

If you're ready to start your journey towards working in Australia, get in touch with IME Advisors today!