If your business is struggling to find the right talent locally, sponsoring overseas skilled workers can be a powerful solution. To do this in Australia, your company must first become a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) — the foundation of employer-sponsored visas. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process, requirements, and what happens after approval.
What Is a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS)?
A Standard Business Sponsor is a business approved by the Department of Home Affairs to sponsor overseas workers for skilled visa programs.
It’s important to understand:
– SBS approval does not grant a visa directly
– It gives your business the legal ability to sponsor employees
Once approved, you can nominate skilled workers under employer-sponsored visa pathways.
What Visas Can a Standard Business Sponsor Access?
After becoming an approved sponsor, your business may be able to sponsor workers under different visa options, including:
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage visa)
- Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa)
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme – permanent residency pathway)
Each visa serves a different purpose. For example:
- 482 / 494 are often used to fill immediate skill shortages
- 186 is typically used for long-term employees and permanent residency
Choosing the right visa pathway is just as important as becoming a sponsor.
Why Become a Sponsor?
Many Australian businesses apply for SBS status to:
- Fill skill shortages when local hiring is difficult
- Access specialised or international talent
- Support business growth and expansion
- Retain high-performing overseas staff
In competitive industries, sponsorship can be a key hiring advantage.
Eligibility Requirements for SBS
To be approved as a Standard Business Sponsor, your business must meet several core criteria:
1. Be a Legitimate Operating Business
You must be legally established and actively trading in Australia (e.g. with an ABN).
2. Demonstrate Financial Stability
Your business should have the financial capacity to pay employees at market rates.
3. Maintain a Strong Compliance Record
There must be no serious breaches of:
- Immigration laws
- Workplace or employment regulations
4. Commit to Fair Recruitment Practices
You must show that:
- You do not engage in discriminatory hiring
- You prioritise Australian workers where possible
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Standard Business Sponsor
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You’ll typically need:
- Business registration documents (ABN/ACN)
- Financial records (BAS, bank statements)
- Evidence of business activity (contracts, invoices)
- Company structure or employee details
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
All applications are submitted through the Department of Home Affairs online portal.
Step 3: Lodge the SBS Application
You’ll need to:
- Complete the sponsorship application
- Submit supporting documents
- Declare compliance with Australian laws
- Pay the application fee
Step 4: Application Assessment
Processing times are usually around 1–3 months, depending on complexity and documentation quality
You may be asked to provide additional information during this stage.
Step 5: Receive Approval
Once approved:
- Your sponsorship is typically valid for up to 5 years
- You can begin nominating overseas workers
What Happens After You Become a Sponsor?
Becoming a Standard Business Sponsor is just the first step.
To actually hire a worker, you must:
- Nominate a specific role
- Ensure the role is genuine and meets visa requirements
- Offer a salary that meets market standards
- Support the employee’s visa application
Ongoing Obligations for Sponsors
As an approved sponsor, your business must comply with strict obligations, including:
- Paying employees correctly and fairly
- Keeping accurate employment records
- Notifying the Department of any major changes
- Ensuring sponsored workers are treated lawfully
Failure to comply can result in penalties or sponsorship cancellation.
How Long Does the Process Take?
- Preparation: a few days to a few weeks
- Processing: typically 1–3 months
- Sponsorship validity: up to 5 years
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Standard Business Sponsor is a structured but highly valuable step for Australian businesses looking to access global talent.
With the right preparation and guidance, the process can be straightforward — but choosing the right visa strategy and staying compliant is just as important.
Need Help Becoming a Sponsor?
At WeMigrate, we help businesses:
- Assess eligibility for sponsorship
- Prepare and lodge SBS applications
- Advise on the best visa pathways (482, 494, 186)
- Manage the full sponsorship and visa process
Get in touch with our team to start your sponsorship journey.