Can Your Employer Sponsor Your Australian Visa? Here’s the Truth
If you’re working in Australia or just landed a job offer, you’ve probably wondered:
“Can my employer sponsor my visa?”
The quick answer? Yes. Employer sponsorship is possible. But it’s not automatic. There are specific rules and criteria businesses must meet before they can sponsor a worker.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
Which employers can sponsor workers
What businesses must prove to Immigration
Common questions about employer-sponsored visas
This isn’t legal advice, just a straightforward guide to help you understand your options. For tailored advice, speak to a registered migration agent.
Can Any Business Sponsor a Worker in Australia?
Many assume only big companies can sponsor workers, but that’s not true.
We’ve seen everything from tiny cafés to national chains successfully sponsor employees. Business size doesn’t matter as much as whether the company can prove it’s operating legally and can afford to employ someone.
What Does a Business Need to Sponsor a Worker?
1. It Must Be a Legitimate, Active Business
First and foremost, the business needs to show it’s legally operating in Australia. This usually means providing:
ABN (Australian Business Number) or ACN
Tax returns and BAS (Business Activity Statements)
Proof of trading, such as invoices or contracts
A lease agreement or business address
Even brand-new businesses can sometimes qualify. If a company is still setting up but can prove it’s genuine, say, it’s spent money on fit-outs, hired staff, or secured a lease, that can work too.
2. Time in Business Helps, but Isn’t Mandatory
While having at least 12 months of operations makes things easier, new businesses aren’t automatically ruled out. What Immigration really cares about is whether the business is financially stable and ready to hire.
3. Business Size? No Minimum Required
There’s no strict rule about staff numbers. Small businesses, even sole traders, can sponsor workers.
However, Immigration often checks the ratio of Australian to overseas staff. If most employees are foreign workers, expect more scrutiny. It’s about maintaining a reasonable balance.
4. Does the Business Need to Be Profitable?
Not necessarily. Immigration doesn’t require a specific profit level. However, the business must prove it can pay the sponsored worker’s salary.
For example, a business that isn’t yet profitable might still qualify if it has:
Strong cash flow
A solid business plan
Future contracts or clients lined up
On the flip side, if it’s a business with no revenue, no clients, and no financial backing, the application will likely struggle.
Visa Options for Employer Sponsorship
If your employer can provide the documents above and meet sponsorship criteria, they may be eligible to sponsor you.
Visa options include:
However, every case is different. Your occupation, visa history, and the company’s situation all play a role.
Key Takeaway
Employer sponsorship is possible, but it takes preparation and the right documentation.
If your employer:
Operates legally in Australia
Has the funds to pay your salary
Genuinely needs to fill your role
They’re likely in a good position to sponsor you.
At Think Visa, we specialize in employer-sponsored visas. Our role is to cut through red tape, clarify the rules, and help both skilled professionals and employers get it right the first time.
Book a free phone assessment today and find out if you or your employer is qualified for employer sponsorship.
