It is critical that the TSS 482 visa holder and business sponsor adhere to the obligations and conditions of the 482 visa when it is approved. Failure to meet the conditions will result in visa cancellations and/or removal of sponsorship status for the business.
Changes to visa conditions for 482 visa
From 1 July 2024, significant changes will be implemented to the 482 visa condition 8607 and the 494 visa condition 8608 as part of the Australian Government's Migration Strategy, which was released in December 2023. These changes are designed to reduce the exploitation of immigrants in Australia and to provide more flexibility for visa holders.
Summary of changes
- Extended period to find a new sponsor: Employer-sponsored visa holders will have 180 days to find a new sponsor if they quit or are fired (before, it was only 60 days).
- Maximum total period: A maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period.
- Flexibility in employment: During this period, visa holders are allowed to work for different employers, including in occupations not listed in their most recently approved sponsorship nomination. This flexibility ensures that visa holders can support themselves financially while searching for a new sponsor.
Obligations
- Notification requirement: Sponsors must notify the Department if a visa holder ceases work within 28 days, whether the visa holder resigns or their employment is terminated.
- Employment restrictions: Unless exempt, visa holders cannot work for another employer unless they have ceased work with their sponsoring employer.
- Nominated occupation: Visa holders must remain in their nominated occupation while working for their existing sponsor.
- Licensing and registration: Visa holders must not do any work inconsistent with any licence or registration needed for their nominated occupation.
Affected individuals
The changes apply to existing 457, 482 and 494 visa holders as well as those granted a visa on or after 1 July 2024.
Click here to learn the latest updates on the 482 visa conditions.
You can also check for more details about the 482 visa condition 8607 on the Department of Home Affairs website.
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