482 Visa Employer Costs 2026: Sponsorship, Nomination & SAF Levy
Home Affairs currently lists AUD420 to become an approved SID sponsor and AUD330 for a SID nomination. The SAF levy is additional: AUD1,200 per year or part-year for a business with turnover under $10 million, or AUD1,800 for other businesses. Sponsorship and nomination costs cannot be passed to the visa holder or family.
What must the employer pay?
The sponsoring business must pay costs associated with becoming a sponsor and nominating the worker, including the applicable SAF levy. Home Affairs expressly says these sponsorship costs cannot be transferred to the worker or family members.
How is the SAF levy calculated?
For SID 482 nominations the levy depends on business turnover and the proposed sponsorship period. A small business under AUD10 million turnover pays AUD1,200 per year or part-year; other businesses pay AUD1,800 per year or part-year.
Can the worker pay the visa application charge?
The prohibition on passing sponsorship and nomination costs to the worker is distinct from the worker’s own visa application costs. Employment contracts and reimbursement arrangements should still be checked carefully for compliance.
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The Emigrate Lawyers difference
Lawyer-led employer sponsorship strategy. We assess sponsorship, nomination and visa criteria together, including salary, LMT, occupation selection, evidence and compliance. We also act in complex refusals and ART matters. Our paperless practice assists employers and skilled workers across Australia and internationally.
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Also read our 482 visa hub, 482 salary guide and employer sponsor requirements guide.
Madhab Kharel — Principal Lawyer
Madhab Kharel is Principal Lawyer and Director of Emigrate Lawyers. His practice includes employer sponsorship, Subclass 482 and 186 visas, nomination refusals, ART review and complex migration matters.
Frequently asked questions
Does meeting one 482 requirement guarantee approval?
No. Sponsorship, nomination and visa criteria operate together and each relevant criterion must be satisfied.
Should employers prepare the nomination before the worker’s visa?
The applications are connected. Evidence should be planned as one consistent case even though the legal criteria are distinct.
Can requirements change?
Yes. Salary thresholds, occupation settings and policy can change. This article was legally reviewed on 26 September 2026.
General information only and not legal advice.
