Small Business Visa Sponsorship: Can You Afford It in 2026?

Small Businesses Can Sponsor

A common misconception is that only large companies can sponsor overseas workers. In fact, many small businesses successfully sponsor workers every year. There is no minimum business size, revenue, or employee count required.

What You Need

• A lawfully operating business with an ABN
• A genuine role that matches a skilled occupation on the occupation list
• Ability to pay at least $73,150/year (TSMIT) or the market rate
• Evidence of Labour Market Testing
• Financial capacity to meet sponsorship obligations

Costs for Small Businesses

The Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy is reduced for small businesses (turnover under $10 million):

• 482 visa: $1,200/year
• 186/494 visa: $3,000 one-off

Total cost including government fees and migration agent: typically $8,000-15,000 for a 482 visa.

Is It Worth It?

If you have a genuine skill shortage that you cannot fill locally, sponsorship is almost always worth it. The cost of an unfilled position — lost revenue, overworked staff, declined contracts — usually far exceeds the sponsorship cost. A 482 visa lasts up to 4 years, making the per-year cost very manageable.

How We Help

SponsorTalent connects small businesses with pre-screened candidates and handles the entire visa process through our registered migration agent. Book a consultation to get started.