If you’re a current Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa holder waiting for a nomination transfer to be processed, you can now breathe a sigh of relief.
The Department of Home Affairs has clarified its position on work rights during nomination processing delays.
✅ You Can Keep Working While Awaiting a New Nomination
Here’s the key update:
The Department does not expect 482 or 494 visa holders to stop working for a prospective sponsor because their 8607 or 8608 visa condition timeframes have lapsed.
As long as you’ve lodged a valid nomination application to change employers within the required 180-day period (from the time you stopped working with your previous sponsor), you can continue working for your prospective employer while waiting for the nomination decision.
What Does This Mean for You?
- You no longer have to pause employment or risk breaching your visa just because of nomination processing delays.
- You retain your work rights and can continue supporting yourself during the transition.
- You’re not penalised due to administrative backlog or processing times.
Why This Matters
Previously, visa holders found themselves in limbo if their 180-day work restriction period had lapsed before the new nomination was approved. This update removes that uncertainty, ensuring people aren’t unfairly disadvantaged due to delays out of their control.
Our Summary
If you're:
- A 482 (Skills in Demand) visa holder changing employers; and
- You’ve already lodged your new nomination within the allowed timeframe (currently 180 days)...
👉 You can keep working for your new sponsor while the Department processes the nomination.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
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.