Visa (457)

This visa was specifically for skilled workers from outside Australia who had been sponsored by an Australian business. The visa holder could work in Australia for their sponsoring employer in the nominated occupation. It was a way for Australian businesses to address labour shortages by bringing in skilled workers from other countries. The visa had specific requirements for both the employer and the employee, including the type of work, duration of stay and other conditions.

What replaced the 457 visa?

The subclass 457 visa closed in March 2018 and was replaced by the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482). From 7 December 2024, that visa was replaced by the Skills in Demand visa, which is still subclass 482. Employers who sponsor visa holders must meet their sponsorship obligations, and visa workers have the same workplace rights as other employees. For example, a sponsored chef must be paid at least the award rate and the salary required for their visa.

Read our guide to visa holders and migrant workers.