The Skills in Demand (SID) Subclass 482 visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia for an approved employer. But what happens if you want to change employers while on a 482 visa? Is it possible? The short answer is yes, but there are important steps you must follow to ensure you remain compliant with your visa conditions.
Key Considerations When Changing Employers
If you’re currently sponsored under a 482 visa and wish to move to a new employer, here’s what you need to know:
1. Your New Employer Must Be an Approved Sponsor
Not every Australian business can employ 482 visa holders. Your prospective employer must be an approved sponsor under the 482 visa program. If they are not yet an approved sponsor, they must apply for and obtain sponsorship approval before they can nominate you for a position.
2. A New Nomination Application is Required
Even though you already hold a valid 482 visa, your new employer must submit a fresh nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs. This application must be for the same occupation your current visa was granted or another eligible occupation under the 482 visa scheme.
3. You Can Work for 180 Days In Any Occupation
As part of changes introduced last year, applicants are eligible to work for up to 180 days once their employment ceases.
This was introduced to give applicants sufficient time to find a new employer and make an income while waiting for their new nomination application.
4. When does the 180 days start?
It starts when you cease employment with your current employer or when your initial sponsor notifies you of your cessation (whichever comes first).
Navigating the transition between employers on a 482 visa can be complex. A small mistake, such as starting work too early/late or failing to ensure the new employer is approved, could put your visa at risk.
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we have extensive experience assisting 482 visa holders with employer transitions. If you're considering changing employers, get in touch with us for expert guidance on how to proceed while staying compliant with Australian immigration laws.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we have extensive experience assisting 482 visa holders with employer transitions. If you're considering changing employers, get in touch with us for expert guidance on how to proceed while staying compliant with Australian immigration laws.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Work Visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal/financial advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional