This option is available to persons with an employer willing to sponsor them permanently. It is similar to the process for the Temporary sponsored ('457') visa, although because entry is permanent, the employing company does not have to apply to be a 'sponsor' first. However the company must still meet similar criteria in relation to being a lawful and operating business.

The process comprises two stages:

1. The employer 'nominates' a position which is offered for at least three years (and which has skill and minimum salary requirements)
2. The prospective employee applies for the visa. The employee must be less than 45 years of age, meet English language requirements, and must have relevant skills and qualifications. If located outside Australia, he/she must have either: a) completed a skills assessment by the relevant body, and have at least three years relevant experience leading up to the time of visa application; or b) be a highly paid executive. Some of the above criteria can be waived in certain circumstances.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS):

This category is similar to ENS (above), with two major differences:

1. The nominated position is first assessed by a Regional Certifying Body, who will approve the position if there is a genuine need for the person at a certain skill and salary level;
2. The position can have slightly lower thresholds for skill level and salary and is available for two years rather than three.

Last updated August 2011