Work migration
Employer Sponsored
Sponsorship through an Australian employer, from the Skills in Demand visa to permanent residency under the Employer Nomination Scheme.
Policy update The 482 was renamed Skills in Demand in December 2024, with three streams, each with a pathway to permanent residence for holders who meet the 186 requirements.
Current structureEligibility
Two visas, one employer pathway.
Your employer sponsors and nominates the role. Salary benchmarks and the occupation list apply.
SID Specialist Skills
For high-earning specialist roles across managerial and professional occupations. Limited to managerial, professional and similar occupations; trades and machinery occupations are not eligible regardless of salary.
Explore this visaSID Core Skills
The main stream, for occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List with salary at or above the core skills income threshold.
Explore this visaENS Direct Entry
Permanent residence with three years of experience, a positive skills assessment and an occupation on the list. Age under 45 applies.
Explore this visaENS Temporary Residence Transition
Permanent residence after two years of sponsored full-time work with your employer on a 482, within the three years before applying, and under 45 unless an exemption applies. Skills assessment generally not required.
Explore this visaSID Labour Agreement
For employers operating under a labour agreement with the Commonwealth, including industry, regional (DAMA), project and company-specific agreements. Concessions to age, salary and English can apply, on the agreement's terms.
Explore this visaThe pathway
Four steps to sponsorship.
Sponsorship
Your employer becomes an approved sponsor.
Nomination
The role is nominated with salary and occupation evidence.
Application
Your visa application is lodged with skills and English evidence.
Grant
Work with your sponsor, with a pathway to permanent residence.
General information only, not immigration advice. Your circumstances matter. Visa requirements, fees and processing times change regularly. Facts on this page last reviewed 15 July 2026. Check current details with the Department of Home Affairs , or speak with us for advice on your situation. Website terms.
Begin with a conversation.
Speak with a MARA-registered migration agent in Melbourne about your pathway. Book a time that suits you.