An OBS lets overseas businesses sponsor skilled workers for temporary work in Australia without having an Australian entity.
Applying to Become an Overseas Business Sponsor (OBS)
Unlike a Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS), an Overseas Business Sponsorship (OBS) allows businesses operating outside of Australia to sponsor employees to work in Australia under the Skills in Demand (SID) (Subclass 482) visa program.
An OBS is typically used when an overseas business intends to:
- Establish or assist in establishing a business operation in Australia in association with an overseas business.
- Fulfil a contractual obligation that requires skilled workers to be temporarily based in Australia.
- Access a broader talent pool to enhance business operations in the Australian market.
Eligibility Requirements for OBS
To qualify as an Overseas Business Sponsor, the business must:
- Operate legally outside Australia.
- Demonstrate a genuine need for skilled workers in Australia.
- Intend to either establish an Australian business operation or fulfill a specific contractual obligation requiring skilled foreign workers.
- Have no adverse immigration history or sanctions related to Australian sponsorship obligations.
- Agree to meet sponsorship responsibilities, including compliance with Australian workplace laws.
OBS Visa Streams
Once approved as an OBS, businesses can nominate skilled overseas workers for the SID 482 Visa under one of its three streams:
- 1. Specialist Skills Stream – For highly skilled professionals with salaries of $135,000+ annually.
- 2. Core Skills Stream – For skilled workers in occupations listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- 3. Labour Agreement Stream – For businesses hiring under a Labour Agreement with the Australian Government.
Application Process for OBS
Applying for Overseas Business Sponsorship (OBS) involves three key steps:
1. OBS Sponsorship Application (Employer)
- Demonstrate a genuine need for skilled workers in Australia.
- Provide evidence of business operations outside Australia.
- Ensure compliance with Australian workplace laws.
2. Nomination of Skilled Workers (Employer)
- Select an occupation listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
- Meet salary and employment conditions aligned with Australian standards.
- Submit a Labour Market Testing (LMT) report if required.
3. Visa Application (Employee)
- Provide relevant work experience and qualifications.
- Meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Pass health and character checks as per Australian regulations.
Our Services
At Global Vision Migration, we assist businesses worldwide with their Australian global mobility needs. Our services include:
Eligibility Assessment
Determining whether your business qualifies as an Overseas Business Sponsor or Standard Business Sponsor, depending on your business structure and objectives.
Application Preparation & Submission
Preparing and lodging your OBS application, ensuring compliance with Australian immigration laws.
Visa & Nomination Assistance
Supporting your business in nominating and applying for SID 482 visas for skilled overseas workers.
Ongoing Compliance Support
Monitoring and ensuring that your business meets sponsorship obligations and regulatory requirements.
Further Information & Assistance
If you require additional information on becoming an Overseas Business Sponsor (OBS) or need a detailed assessment of your business's eligibility, contact Global Vision Migration today.
Book an appointment to discuss your requirements with our expert team and streamline your sponsorship process.
Schedule a Consultation with Global Vision Migration for Expert Immigration Advice and Assistance
FAQs – Overseas Business Sponsorship (OBS) for SID 482 Visa
An SBS is for Australian-based businesses, while an OBS is for foreign companies with no local presence.
- Sponsor workers without an Australian entity
- Meet contract obligations in Australia
- Potential pathway to local business expansion
Your business must:
- Be legally operating overseas
- Prove the need for skilled workers in Australia
- Meet sponsorship obligations
Typically, 4 to 8 weeks, depending on application completeness.
Yes, via the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186 Visa) after meeting work requirements.