[bam123]

Hi,

I have a few questions in regards to the Temporary Business (Long Stay) (subclass 457)

1. Does the employer sponsoring me have to be looking for an employee who is doing an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List? (i.e. would I be able to get sponsored for being a bartender? or do I need to be sponsored doing a job on the skilled occupation list like an accountant?)

2. On the wikipedia page for 457 visa (I know wikipedia isn't a reliable source, which is why I'm asking to make sure) it says that there are going to be updates in 2012, which is:
- The Australian Government has reviewed the 457 skilled immigrant visa and has made some provisions that will fast track the transition to permanent residency starting on July 1, 2012. Starting in July 1, 2012, non-resident workers on the 457 skilled immigration visa will be able to transition to permanent residency if they have 2 years with the employer who has sponsored them and if the employer provides a full-time position in the 457 visa holder's nominated occupation.
Is this true?

3. I'm planning on going on a WHV and then hoping I get sponsored while on my WHV. First of all, is this allowed? And secondly, is it difficult to get sponsored while on a WHV?

Any help would be much appreciated and if anyone has gone through a similar situation, please let me know how it all went. Thanks

 

[Maz25]

1. Yes, there is a SOL list for 457 visa sponsorship and your occupation would have to feature on that list in order to be eligible for a visa. You cannot be sponsored in an unskilled job - there are far too many Australians and permanent residents who can do those jobs and jobs like bartenders are typically done by students and working holidaymakers.

2. Yes, it is true but the full details of how this will work have not been released as yet. If you are looking for information about visas, I strongly recommend that you stick to the DIAC website only. This is the Australian Government's official immigration website and all rules and information are published there - anything published anywhere else should not be relied on and may be incorrect.

3. Yes, it is allowed. However, unless you have an occupation on the SOL list and additionally recent work experience in that field, it will be extremely difficult to find sponsorship. Even when an employer is willing to sponsor you, the immigration rules may not allow him to.

 

[bam123]

OK. Thanks for the reply. Much appreciated