STEM Start-Ups: Access to Accredited Sponsor to Easier Skilled Workers Process
What New Opportunities Are Available for STEM Start-Ups?
Starting from 7 December 2024, STEM start-ups will have the opportunity to access accredited sponsorship. This initiative aims to attract the skilled workers necessary for innovation and growth.
How Can STEM Start-Ups Become Accredited Sponsors?
To qualify as an accredited sponsor, STEM start-ups must have received venture capital funding from a registered Early-Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnership. Once accredited, these start-ups will benefit from:
Priority processing for nominations and visa applications for:
This priority processing will continue when the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage visa on 7 December 2024.
What Are the Steps to Accreditation?
Before a start-up can be considered for accredited status, it must first be approved as a standard business sponsor (SBS). This ensures that the company meets the necessary criteria to effectively support and employ skilled workers.
How Is the Accreditation Process Strengthened?
The accreditation process has been enhanced to strengthen its integrity. The Department of Home Affairs will enforce accreditation requirements and sponsorship obligations more strictly, ensuring that only qualified sponsors can access these benefits.
What Changes Are Being Made to Sponsorship Obligations?
From 7 December 2024, there will be updates to sponsorship obligations. Notably:
Once a sponsored visa holder leaves their sponsor’s employment, the sponsor will no longer be required to ensure that the individual only works in their nominated occupation.
What Are the Options for Temporary Employer Sponsored Visa Holders?
Temporary employer-sponsored visa holders who stop working with their sponsoring employer will have the following options:
Up to 180 days at a time
A maximum of 365 days across their entire visa grant period
During this time, they can choose to find a new sponsor; apply for a different visa or leave Australia.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Assist
These changes provide significant support for STEM start-ups in Australia, facilitating their access to skilled workers necessary for innovation. The government aims to foster a thriving environment for STEM innovation and development by streamlining the accreditation process and updating sponsorship obligations.
Contact us at Agape Henry Crux if you are wondering if your start-up business is eligible for Accredited Business Sponsorship. Speak with one of our Accredited Specialist(s) Immigration Lawyers and our team of immigration lawyers and registered migration agents who specialise in handling highly complex matters. You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
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