457 visa sponsorship refers to the former Australian Temporary Work (Skilled) Subclass 457 visa program, which allowed employers to sponsor overseas skilled workers. Although the 457 visa was replaced in 2018, many people still search for this term.
The Subclass 457 visa has been replaced by the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa. However, understanding 457 visa sponsorship remains useful for workers who previously held the visa or are transitioning to newer categories.
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What Was 457 Visa Sponsorship?
457 visa sponsorship allowed approved Australian employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers for temporary employment in occupations facing shortages.
Employers were required to become approved sponsors and nominate eligible occupations.
Why Was the 457 Visa Replaced?
The Australian Government replaced the 457 visa with the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa to strengthen labor market testing and tighten eligibility criteria.
While the 457 visa no longer accepts new applications, existing holders were transitioned into updated visa arrangements.
Key Requirements Under the Former 457 Visa
Under 457 visa sponsorship rules, applicants were required to:
- Be nominated by an approved sponsor
- Work in an eligible skilled occupation
- Meet English language requirements
- Receive a salary meeting minimum thresholds
- Have relevant qualifications and experience
Employers also had compliance and training obligations.
Current Alternative – Subclass 482 Visa
Individuals searching for 457 visa sponsorship today should review the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa, which now serves as Australia’s primary employer-sponsored temporary visa.
The 482 visa includes short-term and medium-term streams with specific occupation lists and salary thresholds.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many former 457 visa holders transitioned to permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after meeting work and residency requirements.
Current 482 visa holders may also access permanent residency pathways under specific streams.
Employer Sponsorship Obligations
Under both former 457 visa sponsorship and current 482 rules, employers must:
- Demonstrate genuine need for overseas recruitment
- Meet market salary rates
- Comply with workplace laws
- Maintain accurate employee records
Non-compliance can result in sponsorship penalties.
Can You Still Apply for the 457 Visa?
No. The Subclass 457 visa is closed to new applicants. Individuals seeking employer sponsorship must apply under the Subclass 482 visa instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 457 visa still valid?
The visa category is closed, but existing holders were transitioned to updated arrangements.
What replaced the 457 visa?
The Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa replaced the 457 visa.
Can 457 visa holders apply for permanent residency?
Yes, eligible individuals may apply under permanent employer-sponsored pathways.
Final Thoughts
Although 457 visa sponsorship is no longer available for new applicants, it remains an important part of Australia’s skilled migration history. Applicants should now focus on the Subclass 482 visa and other employer-sponsored pathways for temporary and permanent migration options.