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Australia – Work Permits and Working Legally

Working Legally in Australia

Expats are required to have a valid work permit in order to work legally in Australia. The application for a work permit must be made by the employer. There are some exemptions for certain categories of workers, such as foreign diplomats and their families, but for most expats, a work permit is required.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in Australia

The most common types of work permits for expats in Australia are:

  • Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa
  • Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa
  • Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa

Each type of visa has specific eligibility requirements and conditions, such as the applicant’s level of education, skills, and experience, as well as the type of work they will be performing in Australia.

Work Permit Application Process in Australia


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The procedure to apply for a work permit in Australia involves the following steps:

  1. Determine the type of visa that best fits your circumstances.
  2. Have your employer apply for sponsorship.
  3. Submit an application for the relevant visa type.
  4. Provide supporting documents, including proof of identity, police checks, and health assessments.

The processing time for a work permit in Australia varies depending on the type of visa and the demand for visas. On average, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

Work Permit Documents in Australia

The following documents are required when applying for a work permit in Australia:

  • Passport
  • Proof of identity
  • Police certificate
  • Health examination certificate
  • Evidence of qualifications and experience
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Sponsorship letter from the employer

Work Permit Costs in Australia

The costs involved in applying for a work permit in Australia include visa application fees, health examination fees, and other miscellaneous costs such as translation fees and document certification fees. These fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Reliable Information on Working Legally in Australia

Expats can obtain reliable information on working legally in Australia from the Department of Home Affairs, the official government website for immigration and citizenship in Australia. The website provides detailed information on the types of visas available, the eligibility requirements, and the application process. In addition, expats can also seek advice from registered migration agents, who specialize in Australian immigration law and can provide expert guidance on the work permit process.


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