457 Visas
The 457 visa in Australia was established to assist Australian employers meet their needs for skilled labour. Approved companies can sponsor workers to live and work in Australia for up to 4 years. These are, by definition, temporary visas but in some circumstances a 457 visa holder can apply for permanent residence.
The 457 is formally known as a Temporary Business (Long Stay) visa. Application for this visa type is a 3 stage process that starts with the employer obtaining approval as a standard business sponsor. Once approved the sponsor can then nominate an individual, or individuals, for specific jobs. Only when the sponsorship and nomination are in place can an individiual apply for the visa.
Since it is temporary the 457 visa can be obtained relatively quickly - in some cases in a matter of days. However, it is important to know that they come with some strict restrictions for the visa holder and a series of obligations for the employer. For example the 457 visa is attached to the particular job or contract - if the job falls through the 457 visa holder will have 28 days in which to find another sponsor. Visa holders are also responsible for their own health insurance. As of 1st July 2011 the minimum salary that must be paid to a 457 visa holder (exclusive of superannuation and entitlements) is $49330 per annum.andÂ
Whether you are an employer or a visa seeker we can help you navigate your way through the process.
