The Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa programme means that Brisbane employers can sponsor skilled overseas workers to address skills gaps, and then sponsor them for permanent visa eligibility under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). This guide will explore how to sponsor skilled employees, including the Labour Market Testing (LMT) rules, nomination rules, and how to transition the employee to PR. It is an essential read for anyone who is interested in obtaining an employer sponsored visa Brisbane.
The Subclass 482 Pathway for Brisbane Employers
The 482 Skills in Demand visa is designed to allow skilled workers to be brought in for a period of up to 4 years in the event that an appropriate Australian is not available, by approved 482 visa sponsors. Key steps for businesses:
- Have/become Standard Business Sponsorship approval.
- Make a nomination for the particular job and worker.
- Make a recommendation for the worker's visa.
The Core Skills and Specialist Skills streams typically involve Labour Market Testing (LMT). Ensure the position is advertised for minimum 4 months before nomination within the 4 months prior to nomination, in at least two credible and national-reach advertising channels (Seek or other national-reach advertising channels). Ad must be in English, contain the job title, skills required, sponsor name and salary (if less than $96,400). Provide evidence with the nomination. There are some exemptions that apply to international trade obligations, and for really high-paying salaries.
Requirements for nomination include: genuine position, eligible occupation, salary at or above the Annual Market Salary Rate, and payment of the Skilling Australians Fund levy, as well as being at or above a Core Skills Income Threshold (AUD 79,423 from 1 July 2026) or a Specialist Skills Income Threshold (AUD 146,576). All Metro Brisbane roles are based on the standard 482 program.
From 482 to Permanent Residency (186 TRT)
After two years of full-time work in the nominated occupation with an approved sponsor (while holding a 482 or predecessor visa), the employer can nominate the worker under the Temporary Residence Transition stream of the 186 visa. This will qualify for permanent residency.
Key worker criteria: being under 45 at nomination (with limited exemptions), having a level of competence in English (or be exempted), and be in continued genuine employment that meets salary requirements. Many times, an assessment of skills is not necessary for TRT. LMT is not generally necessary for the 186 stage as the continuous employment relationship shows need.
If transfers have been handled appropriately, time may be aggregated across approved sponsors. The employer makes the nomination and the worker applies for the visa.
Practical Advice
Employers in Brisbane should keep all records of LMT carefully and make well-thought-out plans ahead. Employment should be carefully monitored and the nominated role should be a full-time position.
Occupancy lists and thresholds vary and rules may change. If you are looking for personalized assistance with sponsorship, nominations or the 482 to 186 transition, seek advice from a Brisbane registered migration agent or a seasoned subclass 482 agent QLD. The risk of refusal is minimized and businesses and workers can work through the process successfully with professional advice.
Before applying you should always check the latest requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website.
