In one sentence
Australian employer sponsorship lets professionals work on a 482 visa and apply for PR through the 186 transition stream after two years; Hong Kong passport holders can receive up to five years on a 482.
Who it suits
- Professionals with, or able to get, an Australian sponsor
- Those in CSOL occupations or highly paid specialist roles
- People wanting to work first, then move to PR
Who it may not suit
- People without a sponsor
- Those below the income threshold
- Those near 45 planning the 186 route
Main requirements
- Nomination for a full-time role by an approved Australian sponsor
- Pay that meets the relevant income threshold and market salary rate (from July 2026, about AUD 79,000 or more in the Core Skills stream)
- For the Core Skills stream, an occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
- At least 12 months of relevant work experience in the past five years
- English, skills, health and character requirements met
- For 186 permanent residence: two years with the sponsoring employer, generally under 45
Timeline
| Step | Timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment and employer match | Varies | We assess your occupation, pay and experience and confirm the employer and role. |
| Sponsorship and nomination | Several months | The employer applies to become an approved sponsor and nominates the role. |
| 482 visa application | Usually a few months | Lodge the 482 visa application and move to Australia with your family to work and live. |
| 186 permanent residence | After two years of work | After two years with the sponsoring employer, apply for permanent residence through the 186 transition stream. |
Common myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| The 482 is permanent residence | It’s a work visa; the 186 is PR. |
| Changing jobs resets your time | Time with different sponsors can usually be combined. |
| The income threshold is fixed | It’s indexed every July. |
Checklist before you apply
- Confirm your occupation stream and income threshold
- Confirm the employer can sponsor
- Prepare English and skills documents
- Plan the 186 conditions early
Our advice
Plan for the 186 conditions from day one to make the move to PR smoother.
Every family’s background and timeline is different — book a free consultation and a consultant will assess your situation.
Learn more: Australia Employer Sponsored Immigration (482 / 186)