Cost to Sponsor Overseas Worker in Australia
- March 18, 2026
- Posted by: admin
- Category: Uncategorized
(2026 Guide for Employers)
Hiring skilled workers in Australia has become increasingly challenging for many businesses. As a result, more employers are exploring the option of sponsoring overseas workers under the Subclass 482 visa.
One of the most common questions businesses ask is:
“How much does it cost to sponsor an overseas worker in Australia?”
This guide provides a clear overview of the key costs and considerations.
1. Government Fees
The primary cost components include:
- Sponsorship application fee
- Nomination fee
- Visa application fee (typically paid by the employee, but sometimes covered by the employer)
These fees can vary depending on the size of the business and the type of application.
2. Skilling Australians Fund (SAF Levy)
This is a significant cost for employers.
- Small businesses: approximately $1,200 per year per employee
- Larger businesses: approximately $1,800 per year per employee
This levy is paid upfront for the duration of the visa.
3. Salary Requirements
Employers must meet:
- market salary rate
- minimum salary threshold – from $76,515 per annum
This ensures overseas workers are paid fairly and in line with Australian standards.
4. Additional Costs
Depending on the situation, employers may also incur:
- legal or professional fees
- recruitment costs
- training and onboarding expenses
5. Compliance Obligations
Sponsoring an overseas worker is not just about cost.
Employers must also meet ongoing obligations, including:
- ensuring the role remains genuine
- complying with sponsorship conditions
- maintaining proper records
Failure to meet these obligations can result in penalties.
Is Sponsorship Worth It?
For many businesses facing labour shortages, sponsoring overseas workers can be a practical and strategic solution.
It allows access to a broader talent pool and helps maintain business operations where local hiring is not possible.
Next Steps
Every business situation is different.
Before proceeding, it is important to understand:
- whether your business is eligible
- which roles can be sponsored
- the full cost structure involved
If you are considering sponsoring overseas workers, it may be helpful to seek guidance to ensure the process is structured correctly from the beginning.