How Australia’s employer-sponsored regional work visa works

Australia’s Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa allows regional employers to hire skilled workers to fill labour shortages that cannot be met locally. The visa targets workers who can live and work in designated regional areas, supporting regional economic growth and addressing skill gaps.

To qualify, applicants must be nominated by an approved regional employer, have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list, hold a suitable skills assessment, be under 45 years of age, and meet minimum English language proficiency requirements. Skilled visa income thresholds are adjusted annually based on average weekly earnings.

The visa offers three streams:

• Employer Sponsored stream: For workers nominated by regional employers without a labour agreement. Visa holders can live, work, and study in regional areas for up to five years, with the option to apply for permanent residence after three years. The application fee starts at AU $4,910.
  
  
• Labour Agreement stream: For workers sponsored by employers who have an active labour agreement with the Australian government. This stream also allows a stay of up to five years.
  
  
• Subsequent entrant: Allows family members of SESR visa holders to join the primary applicant in Australia. The stay is also up to five years, and the fee starts at AU $4,910.
  
  

Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances. Applicants can use the Department of Home Affairs’ visa processing time guide for an indication of timelines.

The SESR visa is part of Australia’s broader strategy to strengthen regional employment, attract skilled migrants, and provide a pathway to permanent residency for those contributing to regional development.