The Subclass 407 Training Visa and the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa provide unique opportunities for skilled workers in Australia. The 407 visa is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their skills through structured training programs, enabling them to gain valuable experience in their field. In contrast, the 482 visa allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers to fill specific roles when they cannot find suitable local candidates. Understanding these differences is crucial for applicants to select the appropriate visa that aligns with their career goals and aspirations.
Subclass 407
Training Visa allows individuals to participate in workplace-based occupational training in Australia. This visa is designed to enhance skills related to your job, field of study, or professional development.
Duration of Stay
This is a temporary visa, typically valid for up to two (2) years. Visa holders can leave and re-enter Australia as needed while the visa remains valid.
Costs
The application fee starts from AUD 415 for the main applicant. Additional costs may apply for family members, as well as for health checks and police certificates.
Processing Times
Processing times can vary. Delays may occur if the application is incomplete or requires further verification.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Subclass 407 visa, you must:
You need a sponsor, typically an approved organization or a Commonwealth Government agency.
Nominations are essential unless the sponsor is a Commonwealth agency.
Generally, you should be at least eighteen (18) years old at the time of application.
Both you and any accompanying family members must meet specific health and character standards.
Applicants are required to maintain suitable health coverage during their stay.
Subclass 407 visa covers three main types of Occupational training:
Training required for registration: Necessary for certain professions.
Skill enhancement: For improving skills in an eligible occupation.
Capacity building overseas: Involves professional development linked to overseas qualifications or government support.
You can apply for this visa either from inside or outside Australia. If you are in Australia, you must hold a valid temporary substantive visa, excluding certain types like the Subclass 403 or 771 visas.
Including Family Members
You can include family members in your application. They must also meet health and character requirements. If they are not applying at the same time, they can apply as subsequent entrants.
Visa Conditions
Holders of the Subclass 407 visa must comply with all Australian laws and visa conditions. Key conditions include:
Not working more than 40 hours every two weeks (for family members).
Reporting any changes in personal circumstances, such as address or relationship status.
Being a genuine temporary entrant, meaning you must intend to stay in Australia temporarily and comply with visa conditions.
Changing Sponsors
If you wish to change your training organization while in Australia, the new organization must submit a new nomination. However, you do not need to apply for a new visa as long as you continue the approved training.
Subclass 482
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa is designed to help Australian employers address skill shortages by allowing them to sponsor skilled workers from overseas. This visa is a vital pathway for filling positions that cannot be filled by suitably skilled Australian workers.
Duration of Stay
You can stay in Australia for up to two (2) years.
If an International Trade Obligation (ITO) applies, the stay can be extended to four (4) years.
Hong Kong Passport Holders are Eligible to stay for up to five (5) years.
Costs
The application fee starts at AUD 1,495 for the primary applicant. Additional costs apply for family members and other necessary expenses such as English tests, health checks, and police certificates.
Processing Times
Processing times can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Use the visa processing time guide tool for estimates.
What You Can Do with This Visa
Work in your nominated occupation for your sponsor.
Travel to and from Australia multiple times while the visa is valid.
If you are eligible, you may apply for permanent residency.
Eligibility
Be nominated by an approved sponsor.
Work in an occupation listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
You must have at least two (2) years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation or a related field.
A skills assessment may be required, depending on your occupation.
You need to meet minimum standards of English language proficiency unless exempt.
Visa Conditions
With the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, you are required to work exclusively for your nominated sponsor or an associated entity. It's essential to begin your employment within 90 days of entering Australia or from the date your visa is granted. Additionally, you must maintain adequate health insurance throughout your stay to cover any medical expenses, ensuring you are protected while living and working in Australia. Adhering to these conditions is crucial for the validity of your visa and your overall experience in the country.
Including Family Members
You can include family members (secondary applicants) in your visa application. However, certain conditions apply based on your previous visa history.
Changing Employers
If you wish to change your employer while on the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, the new employer must submit a new nomination on your behalf. Following that, you will need to apply for a new visa to formalize the change. This process ensures that your employment remains compliant with visa conditions and allows you to continue working legally in Australia under your new sponsor. It’s important to initiate this process before leaving your current job to avoid any visa issues.
Permanent Residency Pathways
Stay longer in Australia or transition to permanent residency, your employer may be able to sponsor you through various pathways. The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) and the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) are two options available for eligible visa holders. These programs allow you to apply for permanent residency, provided you meet the necessary criteria set by the Australian government. This pathway not only secures your long-term stay but also offers stability in your career and life in Australia.
For clarification, consider consulting a registered migration agent, as immigration regulations may change over time. To ensure you meet the current eligibility criteria and receive personalized guidance, we recommend consulting with Australian Portal Immigration. You can book your appointment here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How long can I stay in Australia on this visa?
- You can stay in Australia for up to 2 years on the Subclass 407 visa. You may leave and re-enter Australia while the visa is valid.
Q2. Who can sponsor me for this visa?
- You must be sponsored by an approved organization or a Commonwealth Government agency. The sponsor is responsible for nominating you for the training.
Q3. Do I need health insurance while in Australia?
- Yes, you are required to maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay to cover any medical expenses.
Q4. Can I apply for a new visa while in Australia?
- Yes, if you want to apply for another Training visa (Subclass 407), you will need continuing sponsorship and must explain why you could not complete your training within the initial period.
Q5: Can I work for any employer in Australia?
- No, you must work only for your sponsoring employer or an associated entity of your employer.
Q6: What if my visa is about to expire?
- Your employer will need to submit a new nomination for you, and you must apply for a new visa.
Q7: How do I check my visa conditions?
- You can check your visa conditions and details through the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
Q8: What if I made a mistake on my visa application?
- If you realize that you have made a mistake on your visa application, you should inform the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible. It's important to address any errors or changes in your situation promptly. Providing incorrect or misleading information can have serious consequences.
Q9: What if I lost my job while on this visa?
- You have up to 180 days to find a new employer or make arrangements to leave Australia.
Q10: Can Hong Kong passport holders stay for longer under the Short and Medium-Term Stream?
- Yes, Hong Kong passport holders can stay in Australia for up to 5 years under the Short Term and Medium-Term Stream of the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482).
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