If you’re looking to move to Australia for work, finding a company to sponsor you can be an essential step.
Sponsorship means that an Australian employer is willing to offer you a job and support your visa application.
This blog post will guide you through the steps to find a company to sponsor you, in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.
Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand what sponsorship involves. When an Australian company sponsors you, they are essentially vouching for you and your skills, indicating that they need you to fill a position that they cannot find a suitable local candidate for.
Types of Sponsorship Visas
There are several visa types under which you can be sponsored by an Australian company:
1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482):
This visa allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for a period ranging from one to four years.
2. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186):
This visa is for skilled workers nominated by their employer for permanent residency.
3. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa (Subclass 187):
This visa is for skilled workers nominated by an employer in regional Australia.
8 Steps to Find a Sponsoring Company
1. Research High-Demand Industries
Start by identifying the industries and sectors in Australia that are experiencing skill shortages. These industries are more likely to sponsor overseas workers. Some high-demand sectors include:
– Healthcare and Nursing
– Information Technology
– Engineering
– Construction
– Education and Teaching
– Agriculture
2. Check the Skilled Occupation Lists
Australia has several skilled occupation lists, such as the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). These lists contain occupations that are currently in demand in Australia. If your occupation is on these lists, your chances of finding a sponsor increase significantly.
3. Prepare a Professional Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are your first impressions on potential employers. Ensure they are tailored to Australian standards, which typically include:
– Clear and concise formatting
– Emphasis on skills and achievements
– Inclusion of contact details, including an Australian phone number if possible
– Professional and error-free writing
4. Use Online Job Portals
Several job portals specialize in listings from companies willing to sponsor overseas workers. Some popular ones include:
– Seek: One of the largest job portals in Australia.
– LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to network with industry professionals and find job listings.
– Indeed: Another popular job search engine with a wide range of listings.
– Jobactive: An Australian government site that lists job vacancies.
5. Network with Industry Professionals
Networking can be a powerful tool in your job search. Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, attend industry conferences and webinars, and join professional associations related to your field. Networking can help you learn about job openings that may not be advertised and get referrals.
6. Approach Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies can help match your skills with potential employers. Some agencies specialize in helping overseas workers find sponsorship in Australia. Research and reach out to reputable agencies in your industry.
7. Directly Contact Companies
Sometimes, the direct approach can be effective. Identify companies in your industry that have a history of sponsoring overseas workers. Visit their websites, find contact details, and send a personalized email expressing your interest in potential job opportunities.
8. Utilize Government Resources
The Australian government offers several resources to help skilled workers find employment. The Department of Home Affairs website provides information on visa options, the application process, and tips for job seekers. Additionally, the SkillSelect platform allows you to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), which can be viewed by Australian employers and state or territory governments looking for skilled workers.
Guide on Preparing for Interviews
Once you start receiving responses from potential employers, it’s crucial to prepare for interviews. Here are some tips:
– Understand the company’s values, mission, and recent developments.
– Be ready to answer questions about your experience, skills, and why you want to work in Australia.
– Highlight how your skills and experience can benefit the company.
– Be prepared to discuss the visa process and how your potential employer can sponsor you.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Finding a company to sponsor you in Australia can be challenging. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:
– Emphasize your international experience and how it can bring a unique perspective to the company.
– Be knowledgeable about the visa process and reassure potential employers that you understand the requirements and are prepared to handle the paperwork.
– Differentiate yourself by highlighting your specialized skills and any certifications or training relevant to your industry.
Tips for a Successful Application
– The process can be lengthy and competitive, but persistence pays off.
– Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application to show genuine interest.
– After submitting your application, follow up with the company to express your continued interest.
– Keep up with changes in visa regulations and industry trends to ensure your application remains relevant.
Conclusion
Finding a company to sponsor you in Australia is a multifaceted process that requires research, preparation, and persistence. By understanding the visa options, targeting high-demand industries, leveraging online job portals, networking, and preparing thoroughly for interviews, you can increase your chances of success.
