Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) – What You Need to Know

If your business wants to sponsor overseas workers on a Subclass 482 (TSS) visa, you’ll first need to become an approved Standard Business Sponsor (SBS).

What Are the Basic Requirements for SBS Approval?

To become an SBS-approved business, you generally need to show that your business is:

  • Lawfully operating in Australia (or overseas, in some cases)

  • Financially sound

  • Free from any serious compliance issues or adverse information

Can an Overseas Business Apply?

Yes – overseas businesses can apply for SBS approval if:

  • They have plans to expand into Australia, or

  • They are contractually required to deliver services in Australia

The business must be registered and lawfully operating in its home country.

What About New Businesses?

Even new businesses can apply for SBS approval.

To do so, you must provide evidence that your business is actively operating. This could include:

  • A commercial lease agreement

  • Staff employment contracts

  • Marketing materials

  • Equipment purchases

  • Business bank statements

Our Registered Migration Agents can guide you through what documents you need and how to present them.

Who Can Apply for SBS Approval?

Almost any type of organisation can apply, including:

  • Sole traders

  • Small businesses

  • Educational institutions

  • Large public companies

There's no size limit—what matters is proving you're a legitimate, active business.

Can I Become an Accredited Sponsor?

Accredited sponsorship is available to businesses that meet strict eligibility criteria. This status can speed up visa processing times but is generally reserved for:

  • Certain government agencies

  • Businesses that have invested over $50 million in Australia

  • Australian Trusted Traders

Most businesses won’t qualify for this—but we can check if you’re eligible.

Can SBS Approval Be Refused?

Yes, and it happens more often than you might think.

Reasons for refusal include:

  • The business appears to rely too heavily on overseas workers

  • Weak financials or unclear business activity

  • Insufficient evidence of lawful operation (especially for new businesses)

That’s why it’s important to get expert advice before applying.

Free SBS Eligibility Assessment

Not sure if your business qualifies?
Our Registered Migration Agent can assess your situation and advise the best path forward.

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