A Complete Guide for Brisbane Employers and Overseas Workers

Australian Immigration Agency Brisbane assists employers and skilled overseas workers in the processes of applying for employer-sponsored visas in Australia.

Businesses in Brisbane who have a genuine need for skilled employees can sponsor overseas employees and skilled employees can access opportunities to live and work in the Brisbane capital. The main visa options include the following visas: Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa, Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494) visa. Note: Metropolitan Brisbane is not designated as a regional area, so the 494 is not generally available for positions located in Greater Brisbane, it is for positions outside of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

For Employers

Become an approved Standard Business Sponsor: Demonstrate that the business is lawfully operating, that there is a real need for them to be a sponsor and that they are capable of fulfilling the sponsorship obligations. Nominate for position. Unless exempt, most nominations involve undertaking the Labour Market Testing (LMT) process (which entails advertising a position for at least 28 days on a national platform).

The salary has to be at or above the Annual Market Salary Rate (the equivalent Australian salary) and income threshold. The Core Skills Income Thresholds are AUD 79,423 and the Specialist Skills Income Thresholds are AUD 146,576 for nominations made from 1st July 2026. Pay levy to the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) (higher for bigger businesses). From then on, there are continuing obligations to offer the same terms and conditions as Australian workers, the person only works in the nominated occupation, records are kept, and reasonable return travel costs are paid if requested.

For Overseas Workers

Requirements include relevant skills, a minimum of 12 months of recent work experience in the nominated position or a similar role, proficiency in English language, health and character clearance. The 482 visa is a temporary visa (usually for four years) and leads to permanent visa after the specified time of working for the same employer under the 186 Temporary Residence Transition visa. The 186 Direct Entry stream is for occupations that are eligible and applicants who are eligible for permanent residency since the application is made.

Requirements, lists and thresholds are subject to change, so both parties will need accurate up to date advice – use a registered migration agent, check mara.gov.au. Compliance prevents workers being put at risk and the employers receive no sanctions. Having early professional advice from a Brisbane-based agency make the process smooth for all involved.

Asia Pacific Group (APG) is a leading migration and education consultancy in Australia specializing in student visas, skilled migration, and international education pathways.