482 Nomination Validity: How Long Is an Approved Nomination Valid?
An approved 482 nomination does not stay open indefinitely. Under the Migration Regulations, an approved nomination can generally cease 12 months after approval unless a visa application based on that nomination remains undecided.
The general 12-month rule
Regulation 2.75 provides that an approved Subclass 482 nomination generally ceases 12 months after the day it was approved, unless a visa application based on the nomination has been made and is not finally determined at that time.
What if the visa application is still pending after 12 months?
Where the visa application was validly made on the basis of the nomination and remains undecided, the nomination can continue beyond the ordinary 12-month point until the visa application is finally determined or withdrawn.
What if the sponsor withdraws the nomination?
A nomination can cease earlier if the sponsor withdraws it. The worker should obtain urgent advice because the visa application may then be affected.
Does nomination approval guarantee visa grant?
No. Nomination approval establishes the nominated position component only. The applicant must separately satisfy the visa criteria.
When is a new nomination required?
A new nomination can be required where the worker changes sponsor, changes occupation, applies for a fresh 482 visa after the existing arrangement expires, or the previous nomination is no longer available for the new application.
Claim your consultation
Tell us the occupation, sponsor, current visa status and the specific 482 issue you need advice about.
The Emigrate Lawyers difference
We assess sponsorship, nomination and visa criteria as one connected matter.
Our work includes refusals, sponsor changes, ART review, health, character and compliance issues.
We test the position, salary, employer material and applicant history for inconsistencies before lodgement.
Employers and workers across Australia and overseas can instruct us by video and electronic case management.
Related 482 resources
Madhab Kharel — Principal Lawyer
Madhab Kharel is the Principal Lawyer and Director of Emigrate Lawyers. His migration law practice includes Subclass 482 and 186 employer-sponsored visas, nomination refusals, ART review, sponsor compliance and complex visa matters.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 482 nomination valid forever once approved?
No. The general validity framework includes a 12-month rule.
Can I lodge the visa 11 months after nomination approval?
Potentially, but delaying creates risk. Confirm the nomination is still valid and all visa criteria remain current before lodgement.
What happens if the nomination expires before the visa is lodged?
A new nomination may be required.
Does a pending visa protect the nomination after 12 months?
The Regulations provide continuation in certain circumstances where the visa application based on the nomination remains undecided.
Speak with a 482 visa lawyer
Contact Emigrate Lawyers for advice about Skills in Demand sponsorship, nomination or visa strategy.
Legal review: Madhab Kharel, Principal Lawyer. Reviewed 26 September 2026. General information only and not legal advice.
