Changing employers while holding an Australian Skills in Demand visa can involve several immigration requirements and financial responsibilities. One important consideration is the cost of submitting a new nomination application. Understanding the 482 new nomination cost helps employers and skilled workers prepare for the process and avoid unexpected expenses. Whether an employee is moving to a new company or an employer is sponsoring an overseas professional for the first time, knowing the relevant government charges is essential.
What Is a New Nomination?
A new nomination is generally required when a 482 visa holder changes their sponsoring employer. The new business must nominate the worker for an eligible position and meet the applicable sponsorship requirements.
The nomination provides information about the job, salary, occupation, and employment arrangements. The Department of Home Affairs assesses whether the proposed position meets the relevant immigration criteria.
Government Nomination Fees
Employers must consider several government charges when preparing a new nomination application. The standard nomination application fee for a Subclass 482 visa is AUD 330.
If the business does not already have approved sponsorship status, it may also need to apply for Standard Business Sponsorship, which currently costs AUD 420.
Another important expense is the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy. This amount depends on the employer’s annual business turnover and the proposed employment period.
Understanding the SAF Levy
The SAF levy is an important part of employer-sponsored visa expenses. It contributes towards Australian workforce development and training initiatives.
For Subclass 482 nominations, the applicable rates are:
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Businesses with annual turnover below AUD 10 million: AUD 1,200 per year.
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Businesses with annual turnover of AUD 10 million or more: AUD 1,800 per year.
The levy is calculated according to the proposed nomination period and must be paid when the nomination application is submitted.
Who Is Responsible for Paying the Costs?
In most circumstances, the sponsoring employer is responsible for paying the sponsorship and nomination expenses required by Australian immigration regulations.
Employers cannot transfer prohibited sponsorship costs, including nomination charges and the SAF levy, to visa applicants through deductions, reimbursements, or other arrangements.
Understanding these financial responsibilities helps protect both employers and overseas employees from potential compliance problems.
Does Changing Employers Require a New Visa Application?
Not necessarily. A 482 visa holder changing employers may be able to continue using their existing valid visa after the new employer’s nomination receives approval.
However, the employee must comply with their visa conditions and should not begin working for the new employer before the required nomination approval.
Individual circumstances should be assessed carefully, especially when employment arrangements or nominated occupations change.
Why Professional Migration Advice Matters
Employer-sponsored visa applications involve several legal and administrative requirements. Incorrect information, missing documents, or misunderstandings about sponsorship expenses can create unnecessary delays.
Migration Vision provides Australian migration assistance to employers and skilled workers navigating sponsorship and nomination requirements. Dr Asad Muhammad Khan, a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2619525), helps clients understand their immigration options and relevant application procedures.
Professional guidance can help employers prepare documentation, understand their responsibilities, and make informed decisions before submitting a nomination.
Final Thoughts
Understanding employer sponsorship expenses is an important part of planning an employment change in Australia. Employers should calculate nomination fees, SAF levy payments, and any additional sponsorship expenses before starting the application process. Knowing the 482 new nomination cost allows businesses and skilled workers to prepare financially, follow immigration requirements, and manage the transition with greater confidence.
