Of the many different work visas that can be used to enter the country of Australia, the Temporary Business (Long Stay- Standard Business Sponsorship (Subclass 457) visa is the most common. The 457 visa allows employers, either overseas or Australian, to sponsor foreign individuals to live and work temporarily in Australia.
Holders of the 457 visa can live and work in Australia for any period up to four years for an eligible employer. An employer is eligible to sponsor foreign citizens if they submit an application that is approved by the Australian government. If a visa holder needs to change sponsors, he or she will need to obtain a new visa.
In order to obtain the 457 visa, the applicant must demonstrate a minimum level of skill in speaking and understanding the English language, along with meeting health requirements. Applicants must also be of good character and agree to follow the laws and respect the values of Australia.
The primary applicant for this visa is permitted to bring any qualified secondary applicants with them into Australia for the duration of the visa. Secondary applicants can include the main applicant’s partner, dependent children, dependent children of the partner, or any other dependent relatives. Secondary applicants have unrestricted permission to study and work in Australia as they please. In addition, visa holders and secondary applicants can enter and leave Australia without restrictions as long as the visa is valid.
It is possible for visa holders to use this visa as a pathway to permanent residency. After living and working in Australia for a while, foreign visitors often decide they would like to stay in Australia and settle permanently. If the primary visa holder decides to apply for permanent residence, secondary applicants can be included on the new application as well. In addition, it may even be possible for 457 visa holders to purchase a home in Australia prior to becoming a permanent resident.