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Many people dream of working in Australia, but not everyone has an employer ready to sponsor them. The good news is that yes, you can work in Australia without sponsorship, depending on the visa you apply for. Australia offers several pathways for foreign nationals to work without being tied to a single employer.
In this article, we explore the main visa options that allow you to live and work in Australia without the need for employer sponsorship. Whether you're a skilled professional, a recent graduate, or a young traveler, there may be a visa that suits your situation.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is one of the most sought-after options for working in Australia without sponsorship. It is a points-tested permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia independently.
To be eligible, you must:
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Be under 45 years old
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Have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
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Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
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Receive an invitation to apply
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Have a valid skills assessment
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Meet the English language requirements
This visa does not require employer, state, or family sponsorship and grants full work and residency rights.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
If you’ve recently graduated from an Australian education institution, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which provides full work rights without needing a sponsor.
There are two main streams:
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Post-Study Work Stream (for graduates with an Australian degree)
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Graduate Work Stream (for those with skills in demand)
Depending on your qualification and location of study, the 485 visa can be granted for up to 8 years. It allows you to gain work experience, build points, and potentially apply for permanent residency later.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and 462)
The Working Holiday Visa is designed for young people from eligible countries who want to explore Australia while working to fund their travels. It’s a temporary visa with no sponsorship required.
You must:
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Be aged 18 to 30 (35 for a few countries)
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Hold a passport from an eligible country
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Have enough funds to support yourself
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Not have any dependent children accompanying you
This visa allows you to work casually or part-time in hospitality, tourism, agriculture, and other sectors. You can also extend it for a second or third year by completing regional work.
Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188)
If you have a background in business or investments, the Business Innovation and Investment Visa offers a pathway to live and work in Australia without an employer sponsor. While this visa requires state or territory nomination, it does not need a job offer.
Applicants must:
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Meet specific financial thresholds
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Prove business or investment experience
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Intend to operate a business or invest in Australia
This visa is suitable for business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Partner Visas (Subclasses 820, 801, 309, 100)
If you are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may apply for a Partner Visa. This visa gives you full work rights and does not require employer sponsorship.
You can apply onshore or offshore, and while your visa is being processed, you will typically be granted full work rights under a bridging visa.
Important Considerations
Before applying for any visa, make sure you meet all eligibility requirements, including skills assessments, English proficiency, and health and character checks. Visa processing times and conditions can vary, and immigration rules change often. Always refer to official government updates before making any decision.
Sources
Australian Department of Home Affairs
SkillSelect
Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Immigration policies may change, and eligibility depends on individual circumstances. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for current and personalized advice.
FAQs
Can I work in Australia without sponsorship if I don’t have a job offer?
Yes, visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or Working Holiday Visa allow you to work in Australia without a job offer or sponsorship.
What’s the best visa for international students who want to stay and work?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is ideal for recent graduates who want to work temporarily and later apply for permanent residency.
Are there age restrictions for any of these visas?
Yes, Working Holiday Visas are age-restricted (usually under 30 or 35 depending on nationality), while skilled visas like the 189 require applicants to be under 45.
Do I need to prove my English language ability?
Yes, most visas require proof of competent English, usually demonstrated through a recognized test like IELTS or PTE.
Can I get permanent residency without employer sponsorship?
Yes, the 189 Skilled Independent Visa offers permanent residency without needing sponsorship from an employer, state, or family member.
