Who Pays for 482 Visa-Related Fees: Employer or Employee?

The Subclass 482 Skill in Demand (SID) visa is a popular employer-sponsored visa in Australia, allowing businesses to bring in skilled workers from overseas when local talent is unavailable. One of the most common questions regarding the 482 visa is: who is responsible for paying the associated costs— the employer or the employee?

The answer depends on the type of fees involved, as some are mandatory employer-paid costs, while others can be covered by the employee. Let's break it down.

Employer-Paid Costs for the 482 Visa

1. Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) Application Fee

Employers must apply for Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) to sponsor skilled workers. Once approved SBS will last for 5 years and can sponsor multiple employees. The cost of this application is:

• $420 (one-time payment)

✅ Responsibility: Must be paid by the employer.

🚫 Cannot be passed on to the employee.

2. Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy

The SAF levy is a significant cost and is legally required to be covered by the employer. The fees are:

• Small businesses (annual turnover under $10M): $1,200 per year per worker
• Larger businesses (annual turnover over $10M): $1,800 per year per worker

✅ Responsibility: Must be paid by the employer.
🚫Cannot be passed on to the employee.

3. Nomination Fee

To nominate an employee for a 482 visa, the employer must pay a nomination fee of:

• $330

✅ Responsibility: Must be paid by the employer.

4. Agent fees:

🚫Cannot be passed on to the employee.

Agent's fees associated with SBS and Nomination applications must be paid by the Employer and cannot be passed on to the employee.

Employee-Paid Costs for the 482 Visa

1. Visa Application Fee

The visa applicant is responsible for their visa application fee:

• Single Applicant: $3,115
• Additional Applicant ( 18 and over): $3,115
• Additional Applicant (under 18): $780

✅ Responsibility: The employee typically covers this cost unless the employer offers to reimburse it as part of the employment agreement.

2. English Test & Skills Assessment (if required)

Employees may need to take an English language test (IELTS, PTE, etc.) and undergo a Skills Assessment (if required for the occupation). The cost varies based on the testing provider and assessing authority.

✅ Responsibility: Usually covered by the employee.

3. Health Insurance & Medical Examination

482 visa holders must have adequate health insurance and undergo a mandatory medical examination.

• Health Insurance: Approx. $1,000–$2,000 per year (varies by provider)
• Medical Exam: Approx. $350–$500

✅ Responsibility: The employee usually pays for these unless the employer offers to cover them.

4. Police Clearance Certificates

Applicants may need police clearance certificates from their home country or any country they’ve lived in for over 12 months. Costs vary depending on the country.

✅ Responsibility: Typically paid by the employee.

Additional Costs That Employers May Choose to Cover

While some costs are mandatory for employers, many businesses voluntarily cover additional fees as part of an employment package, such as:
✅ Visa application fees for the employee and family members
✅ Relocation expenses (flights, temporary accommodation)
✅ Health insurance
✅ English test & skills assessment fees

This varies from one employer to another and is subject to negotiation between the employer and the employee.

Key Takeaways

Employers cannot ask employees to reimburse mandatory employer-paid costs like the SAF levy and nomination fee, as this would breach Australian migration laws.

For employees considering the 482 visa, it's best to clarify which costs the employer will cover before accepting a job offer. For employers, offering to cover more costs can help attract and retain top talent.

Would you like to discuss your 482 visa options? Contact MaxiMax Education & Migration Services for expert guidance!

What Is the Skill in Demand Visa (SID Visa)?

The Skill in Demand Visa also referred to as the 482 Visa, is a work visa designed to bring skilled professionals to Australia to fill critical roles. The SID Visa offers three distinct streams:

1. Specialist Skills Stream

This stream caters to highly skilled professionals with occupations listed in ANZSCO Major Groups 1, 2, 4, 5, or 6, excluding trade workers, machinery operators, and laborers (Groups 3, 7, and 8). To qualify:

• Applicants must meet the specialist skills income threshold of $135,000 or more.
• Occupations under this stream are fast-tracked through streamlined processing.

Key Highlights:

• This stream is a new addition, not previously available under the TSS visa.
• It recognizes the significant economic contributions of highly skilled migrants, enabling employers to fill critical gaps efficiently.

2. Core Skills Stream

Designed for roles listed in the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), this stream targets skilled workers meeting the core skills income threshold of $73,150, aligned with the TSMIT under the TSS visa.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream retains the existing settings from the TSS visa. It provides continuity for applicants under employer-specific agreements with the Australian Government. The occupations and criteria are customized to the Labour Agreement, addressing the unique needs of industries.

Comparing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa and the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

Australia’s migration landscape has evolved with the introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa. This change, effective from December 7, 2024, aims to better address skill shortages while simplifying visa criteria. Let’s break down the differences between these two 482 Visa categories in key areas.

1. Work Experience Requirements

• TSS Visa: Applicants needed at least 2 years of work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field.
• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa: The requirement is more flexible, with applicants needing 12 months of work experience within the past 5 years, ensuring recent and relevant experience​.

2. Income Threshold

• TSS Visa: Minimum salary threshold of AUD 73,150 for both Short-term Stream and Medium-term Stream.

• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa:
  • Core Skills Stream: Minimum salary threshold of AUD 73,150.
  • Specialist Skills Stream: Threshold set at AUD 135,000.

3. Occupation List

The Migration (Specification of Occupations—Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024 introduces the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) as part of the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482) framework. This instrument consolidates the occupation lists under a single, streamlined list for the Core Skills stream, replacing the three separate occupation lists used under the TSS visa.

Key Changes: CSOL vs. Previous TSS Occupation Lists

1. Consolidated Occupation List

• The CSOL simplifies the system by combining all eligible occupations into a single list, improving clarity for both applicants and employers.

2. Occupation Numbers

• CSOL includes 456 occupations, a reduction of 125 occupations compared to the previous TSS visa lists.
• Despite this reduction, the CSOL expands opportunities for applicants with 189 additional occupations that now provide a direct pathway to permanent residence through the Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.

3. Updates for New Occupations

• The CSOL features 16 new or updated occupations to align with changes in the ANZSCO classification, ensuring relevance to Australia's current labor market needs.

4. English Language Requirements

• TSS Visa:
  • Short-term Stream: IELTS overall score of 5.0 with no less than 4.5 in each band.
  • Medium-term Stream: IELTS overall score of 5.0 with no less than 5.0 in each band.
• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa:
  • For both streams: IELTS overall score of 5.0, with a minimum of 5.0 in each band​.

5. Stay Period

• TSS Visa:
  • Short-term Stream: Stay up to 2 years.
  • Medium-term Stream: Stay up to 4 years.
• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa:
  • Both streams allow a stay of up to 4 years, offering consistency and longer-term stability​.

6. Genuine Entrant Requirement

• TSS Visa: Included a "Genuine Temporary Entrant" test to ensure applicants intended to stay temporarily. Factors such as immigration history and circumstances were considered.
• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa: This requirement has been removed. Instead, the focus is on the applicant’s genuine intention to perform the nominated role and the authenticity of the position.

7. Visa Fees

• TSS Visa:
  • Short-term Stream: AUD 1,495.
  • Medium-term Stream: AUD 3,115.
• Skill in Demand (SID) Visa:
  • A uniform visa fee of AUD 3,115 for all streams, simplifying the cost structure.

Transition from TSS Visa to Skill in Demand Visa

If you hold a TSS Visa, here’s what you need to know:

• Your TSS Visa remains valid until expiration.
• Applications submitted before December 7, 2024, will be assessed under TSS rules.
• Post-December 7, 2024, all applications will fall under the Skill in Demand Visa framework.

Why Work with a Registered Migration Agent?

Navigating the migration process can be overwhelming. Engaging a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) ensures that your application is professionally managed, increasing your chances of success while minimizing stress. Here’s why working with an RMA is a smart choice:

• Stay updated on the latest migration laws, policies, and changes, helping you to understand complex criteria such as income thresholds, occupation lists, and English language requirements.
• Assess your individual circumstances to determine your eligibility. And provide advice tailored to your specific visa type, such as the 482 visa, Skill in Demand (SID) visa, or permanent residency pathways.
• Identify potential issues in your application and address them proactively with clear strategies.
• Save time by managing the nomination and application process.
• Maximize your chances of approval.

Apply for the Skill in Demand Visa Today

The Skill in Demand Visa (SID) marks a significant improvement over the Temporary Work Visa (TSS), offering greater clarity, better salary benchmarks, and more flexibility. Whether you're an employer seeking skilled workers or a professional looking to advance your career in Australia, the 482 Visa could be the solution you're looking for.

Contact us today to speak with an experienced Registered Migration Agent and start your journey toward working in Australia.

Key Features of the Training Visa

• Duration: The 407 visa is valid for up to 2 years, depending on the training program's length.
• Occupational Training Types:
  • Training for Occupational Registration: Ideal for individuals requiring licenses, membership, or registration.
  • Skill Enhancement Training: Tailored for those in eligible skilled occupations to improve their expertise.
  • Capacity Building Training: Perfect for government-supported training or professional development purposes.
• Family Inclusion:
  • Applicants can include dependents in their application, ensuring family support during the stay in Australia.

407 Training Visa Steps

The application process for the Training Visa consists of three essential steps:

1. Sponsorship
2. Nomination
3. Visa application

Step 1: Sponsorship

Applicants for the 407 visa must secure sponsorship from an Approved Temporary Activities Sponsor. The sponsor must meet specific eligibility requirements and demonstrate a genuine need to provide training that aligns with the applicant’s skills and career development.

Step 2: Nomination

Once sponsorship is in place, the sponsor must nominate the applicant for the training program. This nomination includes details of the proposed training, its purpose, and how it aligns with the applicant's qualifications. The nomination is submitted to the Department of Home Affairs for review and approval.

Step 3: Visa Application

Following the application of the nomination, the applicant can lodge the 407 visa application. The application requires providing supporting documents, meeting the visa criteria, and paying the applicable visa fees. Accuracy and completeness of the application are key to avoiding refusal or delays in processing.

407 Visa Requirements

To be eligible for a 407 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Common Criteria:

• The applicant must be sponsored by an approved organization.
• The training must be legitimate and align with the stated objectives of the category.
• The applicant must meet, age, health, character, and English language requirements.
• Financial capability to support themselves during the training period must be demonstrated.
• Genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria must be satisfied.

Criteria for Occupational Training Required for Registration

• The training must be mandatory for the applicant to obtain occupational registration, membership, or licensing.
• The applicant must provide evidence that the registration or licensing is necessary for employment in their field.
• Training must be conducted in a structured, supervised environment.
• The applicant must not already possess the required registration or licensing.

Criteria for Training to Enhance Skills in an Eligible Occupation

• The nominated occupation must be listed on Australia’s eligible skilled occupation list.
• The applicant must demonstrate that the training directly relates to improving skills in the nominated occupation.
• Training must be structured and workplace-based, providing hands-on experience.
• Evidence must be provided to show that the training cannot be reasonably accessed in the applicant’s home country.
• The program must include detailed objectives, training modules, and supervision plans.
• Have at least 12 months of full-time experience in the occupation to which the occupational training relates in the 24 months immediately preceding the time of the nomination

Criteria for Training for Capacity Building Overseas

• The training must support professional development in the applicant’s home country.
• The applicant may participate in government-supported training programs or professional development.
• Evidence must show that the training aligns with broader organizational or governmental objectives in the applicant’s home country.
• The sponsor must provide a clear explanation of how the training benefits both the applicant and their home country.
• Training must not displace an Australian citizen or permanent resident in the workforce.

Training for Overseas Qualifications:

This applies when:

• The person needs up to 6 months of hands-on experience, research, or observation to complete a qualification from a foreign educational institution; and
• The training is a structured program designed specifically for the person's training needs.

Training with Government Support:

This applies when:

• The training is backed by a government agency or the government of the person's home country; and
• The program is workplace-based, tailored to the individual's training needs, and is for a duration that fits those needs.

Training for Professional Development:

This applies when:

• The person has an overseas employer and works in a managerial or professional role; and
• The training is relevant to their professional growth and fits their employer's business activities; and
• The training primarily involves in-person teaching in a classroom or similar setting.
• The training must align with the applicant's current job, academic background, or career goals.

Costs of the Training Visa (Subclass 407)

The whole application process involves three steps.   Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses involved in each step:

1. Sponsorship fee: $420

2. Nomination fee: $170

3. Visa Application Fee:

• Visa Application Fee:
  • AUD 415 for the main applicant.
  • AUD 415 for each dependent aged 18 or older.
  • AUD 105 for each dependent under 18 years of age.
  • Subsequent Temporary Application Charge:

An additional fee of AUD 700 may apply if the applicant previously applied for certain temporary visas.

Tips for Managing Costs

• Ensure your sponsor is fully aware of their responsibilities and costs.
• Check if the additional application charge applies to you to avoid surprises.
• Consult a migration professional to ensure all fees are accurately calculated.

By understanding the costs upfront, you can plan your Subclass 407 Visa application with confidence and focus on your professional growth!

Processing time for Training Visa

If you're applying for the Subclass 407 Visa, knowing the processing time is essential for planning your move to Australia. To get an idea of current processing times, you can use the Visa Processing Time Guide Tool. This tool provides estimated processing durations based on recently finalized applications.

⚠️ Note: The tool serves as a general guide and does not guarantee specific processing times for individual applications. Each case may vary depending on factors like completeness of documents, demand, and individual circumstances.

Plan your application timeline effectively and ensure all required documents are submitted to avoid unnecessary delays!

Mandatory Visa Conditions for Subclass 407 Visa: Primary and Secondary Applicants

Primary Applicant Conditions:

1. 8102 - Work Restriction
   The primary visa holder is prohibited from working outside the approved training program outlined in their visa application.
2. 8501 - Health Insurance Requirement
   The applicant must maintain comprehensive health insurance coverage for their entire stay in Australia.
3. 8516 - Visa Compliance
   The visa holder must adhere to all conditions under which their visa was granted, including active participation in the approved training program.
4. 8303 - Prohibition of Disruptive Activities
   The visa holder must not engage in disruptive actions or violent activities that could harm the Australian community or any specific group within it.

Secondary Applicant Conditions:

1. 8104 - Limited Work Rights
   Secondary visa holders, such as spouses or dependents, are permitted to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while in Australia.
2. 8501 - Health Insurance Requirement
   Similar to the primary applicant, secondary visa holders must also maintain adequate health insurance throughout their stay in Australia.
3. 8303 - Prohibition of Disruptive Activities
   Secondary applicants are also prohibited from participating in activities that disrupt or threaten the safety of the Australian community or any group within it.

Benefits of the 407 Visa

1. Develop your skills through practical training in a professional setting.
2. Gain valuable international experience to strengthen your career prospects.
3. Expand your professional network in Australia, increasing potential job opportunities.
4. Acquire the skills and qualifications needed to meet the requirements for temporary visas like subclass 482 or permanent residency.
5. Bring your spouse and children with you, ensuring family support while you live and train in Australia.

Occupations Eligible for the Subclass 407 Visa

The Subclass 407 Visa allows applicants to undertake occupational training in Australia to enhance their skills and expertise. Here are some of the occupations eligible under the visa:

1. Child Care Centre Manager
2. Registered Nurse
3. Enrolled Nurse
4. Accountant (General)
5. Civil Engineer
6. Mechanical Engineer
7. Community worker
8. Fitness centre manager
9. Crop farmers (nec)
10. Chef
11. Carpenter and Joiner
12. Motor mechanic (General)
13.  ICT security specialist
14. Food Technologist
15. Social worker

For the complete list of eligible occupations, please refer to the official Subclass 407 Visa Occupation List. This document includes detailed information about all the approved occupations and their respective ANZSCO codes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Subclass 407 Visa?

The Subclass 407 (Training) Visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to participate in occupational training or professional development in Australia to improve their skills and qualifications.

How long can I stay on a 407 Visa?

The Subclass 407 Visa allows a stay of up to two years, depending on the duration of the approved training program.

Can I include family members in my 407 Visa application?

Yes, applicants can include their spouse, dependent children, or other eligible family members, allowing them to accompany you during the training.

Can the Subclass 407 Visa lead to permanent residency?

The Subclass 407 Visa is a temporary visa and does not offer a direct pathway to permanent residency. However, it serves as a valuable opportunity to gain skills and qualifications that may enhance your eligibility for permanent residency through other visa options.

Can I Change Sponsors on a Subclass 407 Visa?

Yes, you can. However, the new organisation must sponsor you by submitting a new nomination for approval.

Do I need a new visa if I change sponsors?

No, as long as you continue the same occupational training program approved on your current visa, you do not need to apply for a new visa.

What happens if my new nomination is approved?

Once the new nomination is approved, you can continue your occupational training with the new sponsor for the remaining duration of your Subclass 407 Visa.

What if my occupational training program changes?

If your training program changes, you must apply for a new Subclass 407 Visa to reflect the updated program.