What Work Visa Can I Apply Without a Sponsor?
Which Work Visas Don’t Require Employer Sponsorship?
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)
The Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462) is a temporary visa for young adults from eligible countries to experience Australia and work for up to 12 months stay period. The visa applicant will have the opportunity for visa extension for an additional 2 more times if specific work requirements are met.
Special Category Visa (Subclass 444)
This is only eligible for New Zealand citizens and will be granted automatically when they enter Australia; the Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) only allows temporary residency, however, allowing the visa applicants to live, work and study as long as they are New Zealand citizens.
New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)
For family members of New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444), they can apply for the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461). This is a temporary visa for family members of New Zealand citizens who want to live and work in Australia. This visa is granted for 5 years and has renewal options. Unfortunately, there is no pathway to permanent residency (PR) or citizenship. Speak to an immigration lawyer if you wish to seek a pathway to PR as your objective.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Department allows international graduates from Australian institutions to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to live and work. This temporary visa allows graduates to gain work experience for 2 – 4 years, depending on their qualifications and the visa stream.
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent visa for highly talented individuals in their specific fields. To apply for this visa, you will need to submit an expression of interest (EOI) form with an endorsement from a recognised individual or organisation. In December 2024, the department shared how they prioritise talents by their achievements, fields and skills.
Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa (Subclass 403)
Individuals under special international agreements to temporarily work in Australia are eligible to apply for a Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa (Subclass 403). There are a number of streams under this visa, so have a read-through to ensure which suits your circumstances the best. Otherwise, contact an immigration lawyer for professional advice. Additionally, there is no pathway to permanent residency (PR) or citizenship with this visa.
Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192)
A permanent residence (PR) visa for Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste passport holders are eligible to apply for a Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192) to live and work in Australia. The application process is an electronic ballot system. Applicants will be selected at random to be invited to apply. Applicants are required to meet the specific English language and secure a job offer in Australia.
Client Testimonials
….we call it Support Network
As navigating through the immigration law process may be difficult, our former clients have agreed to share their experiences through telephone chats, emails and meetings in person.
These are their stories…
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
At Agape Henry Crux, we specialise in Immigration Law, and our team of Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyers, immigration lawyers, and migration agents are experts in handling highly complex matters. To seek professional advice on your next visa pathway, you may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
