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

If your business wants to sponsor overseas workers under the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) visa, you'll first need to become an approved Standard Business Sponsor (SBS).

What Are the Basic Requirements for SBS Approval?

To become an approved Standard Business Sponsor, your business generally needs to demonstrate that it is:

• Lawfully operating in Australia (or overseas, where applicable).

• Financially capable of meeting its sponsorship obligations.

• Free from any adverse information or serious compliance issues.

Can an Overseas Business Apply?

Yes. Overseas businesses can apply for SBS approval if they:

• Have a genuine intention to establish operations in Australia; or

• Need to sponsor overseas workers to fulfil contractual obligations in Australia.

The business must be lawfully operating in its home country.

What About New Businesses?

New businesses can also apply for SBS approval.

You will generally need to provide evidence that your business is actively operating, such as:

• Commercial lease agreements.

• Employment contracts.

• Business bank statements.

• Marketing materials.

• Equipment or stock purchases.

• Business registrations and licences.

Our Registered Migration Agents can advise you on the documents required for your application

Who Can Apply for SBS Approval?

Most businesses and organisations can apply, including:

• Sole traders.

• Partnerships.

• Private companies.

• Public companies.

• Educational institutions.

• Government agencies.

• Not-for-profit organisations.

There is no minimum business size—what matters is demonstrating that your business is genuine and actively operating.

Can I Become an Accredited Sponsor?

Yes, if your business meets the Department of Home Affairs' accreditation criteria.

Accredited Sponsors may benefit from priority processing of eligible nomination and visa applications.

Eligibility is generally limited to businesses with a strong history of sponsoring skilled workers and a high level of compliance with Australia's immigration and workplace laws.

Our team can assess whether your business may qualify for Accredited Sponsor status.

Can SBS Approval Be Refused?

Yes. An SBS application may be refused if:

• The business is not genuinely operating.

• There is insufficient evidence of lawful business operations.

• The business has adverse compliance history or immigration-related issues.

• The Department is not satisfied the business can meet its sponsorship obligations.

Preparing a strong application can significantly improve your chances of approval.

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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