Can a Small Business Sponsor a 482 Visa? Requirements & Costs
There is no rule that a business must be large to sponsor a 482 worker. A legally established and operating small business can apply for sponsorship, but its evidence must demonstrate that the nominated role is genuine, commercially credible and supportable.
Small business does not mean lower visa standards
The nominated occupation, worker’s skills, Labour Market Testing, salary and market-rate requirements still apply. A small employer should expect the Department to understand why the role is needed and how it fits the business.
Lower SAF levy for businesses under $10 million turnover
Home Affairs currently sets the SID SAF levy at AUD1,200 per year or part-year for a business with annual turnover under AUD10 million, compared with AUD1,800 for other businesses.
Evidence of business capacity
Financial records, payroll, BAS material, contracts, organisational structure, trading history and evidence of growth can help explain the commercial basis for the position. The appropriate evidence depends on the business and role.
Claim your consultation
Tell us about the employer, occupation, proposed salary, current visa status and the 482 issue you need advice about.
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.
Build the complete 482 strategy
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.
