Australia is a popular destination for skilled workers and international talent, thanks to its thriving economy, multicultural society, and promising career opportunities. Among the many visa options available, the Employer Sponsored Visa and the Bridging Visa play crucial roles for those looking to live and work in Australia. This article by PACE Immigration, a trusted name in migration services, offers a clear, informative guide to these visa types and how they help individuals transition smoothly into Australian life.
Employer Sponsored Visa: An Overview
An Employer Sponsored Visa allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers when they cannot find suitable candidates locally. It benefits both parties: businesses fill critical skill shortages, and individuals gain legal work status with a path to permanent residency.
There are several streams under this category, including:
Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 494)
1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
The TSS visa is ideal for temporary employment and allows skilled workers to stay in Australia for up to 2-4 years, depending on the occupation. It is designed to address genuine skill shortages in the Australian labour market.
Key Features:
Requires employer nomination
Valid for 2 to 4 years
May offer a pathway to permanent residency via Subclass 186
Occupation must be on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) or Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
2. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
This is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. It has three streams:
Temporary Residence Transition Stream
Direct Entry Stream
Labour Agreement Stream
Eligibility Criteria:
Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
English language proficiency
Relevant skills and work experience
Nomination by an approved employer
3. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
The Subclass 494 is a provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia.
Advantages:
Five-year validity
Pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191)
Encourages regional migration to support economic development
Bridging Visa: A Transition Tool
A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that allows you to legally remain in Australia while your application for another substantive visa is being processed.
PACE Immigration often assists clients who need a Bridging Visa while waiting for decisions on permanent visas or sponsorships.
Types of Bridging Visas
Bridging Visa A (BVA):
Issued to applicants who are already in Australia and have applied for another visa. Allows the individual to stay in the country legally until a decision is made.Bridging Visa B (BVB):
Provides temporary travel rights. Ideal for those who need to leave Australia briefly while their visa application is still pending.Bridging Visa C (BVC):
Given to applicants who apply for a new visa while unlawfully present in Australia. It allows legal stay but does not permit travel.Bridging Visa E (BVE):
A last-resort visa for individuals who are unlawful and need time to make arrangements to depart or resolve their status.
Why Choose PACE Immigration?
Navigating Australia’s immigration pathways can be overwhelming. Whether you're applying for an employer sponsored visa or need support with a bridging visa, PACE Immigration offers personalized services to help make the process seamless.
Our Services Include:
Skilled visa assessment and strategy planning
Employer sponsorship guidance and compliance
Bridging visa applications and status management
Appeals and representation in case of visa refusals
Our expert consultants understand the complexities of Australian immigration laws and offer tailored advice based on individual goals, occupations, and legal status.
Common Challenges and How We Help
1. Employer Readiness for Sponsorship
Many employers are unfamiliar with the obligations and documentation needed for sponsorship. PACE Immigration provides training and end-to-end assistance to employers, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
2. Visa Delays and Bridging Visa Management
Applicants often face long processing times. We help you stay lawfully in Australia with appropriate bridging visa options while you wait.
3. Changing Jobs on Employer Sponsored Visas
Switching employers on a Subclass 482 or 186 visa can be complex. We ensure that the transition is legally sound and that all necessary steps are taken to maintain your visa validity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right visa pathway is essential for a successful future in Australia. Whether you are an employer trying to fill a critical role or a skilled professional seeking opportunity, the Employer Sponsored Visa offers a clear route to permanent settlement. On the other hand, if you're in between visas or awaiting a decision, the Bridging Visa ensures you stay legally in the country.
With PACE Immigration, you’re not just applying for a visa — you’re investing in expert guidance, compliance, and peace of mind.
