Absolute Immigration supports AHA Australia members in addressing hospitality worker shortages guiding employers through visa options and application processes for skilled overseas workers, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
The Australian hospitality industry thrives on a diverse and talented workforce. However, recent years have witnessed a significant shortage of skilled professionals. In recognition of the critical need to secure a qualified workforce within the hospitality sector, the implementation of an immigration program specifically designed to attract overseas professionals presents a viable solution.
Absolute Immigration recognises the invaluable contributions of the hospitality sector to the Australian economy. As a trusted immigration partner, we understand the challenges faced by Australian Hotels Association (AHA) members in attracting and retaining international talent.
For companies seeking to sponsor or hire overseas workers, as well as for skilled migrants aspiring to work in the vibrant hospitality industry and make Australia their home, this guide outlines the primary immigration pathways and visa options available.
Visa Options for the Hospitality Industry
There are currently over 100 visa subclasses that can be accessed as part of an immigration solution. Here is an overview of the most common visa options suitable for the hospitality industry:
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482): This visa allows Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers for up to four years if they cannot find an Australian worker to fill the job. Hospitality roles such as chefs, café managers, and hotel managers are often eligible under this category, provided the applicants meet the skill requirements and the employer can demonstrate a genuine need.
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494): Designed for employers in regional Australia to address labour shortages, this visa is ideal for hospitality workers willing to live and work in less urbanised areas. The visa is valid for five years and offers a pathway to permanent residency after three years of employment.
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and Subclass 462): These visas allow young adults from eligible countries to work and travel in Australia for up to two years. They are popular among younger hospitality workers who wish to gain international experience while exploring Australia. Specified hospitality work in designated areas can contribute towards a second or third working holiday visa.
- Training Visa (Subclass 407): For those looking to enhance their skills in the hospitality industry, this visa permits up to two years of workplace-based occupational training. Applicants must be sponsored by an eligible business or organisation.
- Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186): This visa stream allows employers to nominate skilled workers for permanent residency, provided the role is considered critical to the business and no suitable Australian candidate is available.
Given the level of complexity when employing people from overseas, there could be alternative visa options that AHA members could consider, other than the standard 482 visas, saving the business both time and money. This would be subject to the areas that these employees are going to work, where they are currently located, and the skills and occupation required.
Absolute Immigration Services
Absolute Immigration offers a comprehensive suite of immigration services tailored to the specific needs of the hospitality sector, including:
- Visa Assessments: Our team of immigration specialists can assess the eligibility of potential employees for various skilled migration visas aligned with hospitality occupations.
- Sponsorship Solutions: We guide employers through the sponsorship process for skilled workers, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
- Streamlined Applications: Our team leverages its extensive experience to prepare and submit robust visa applications, maximising the chances of a successful outcome.
- Post-Lodgement Support: We provide ongoing support throughout the application process, addressing any queries or concerns that may arise with immigration authorities.
- Navigating Compliance and Legislation: With frequent changes in immigration policies, staying compliant is critical. Our purpose is to help businesses and their people overcome barriers to immigration and ensure that they stay abreast of evolving immigration laws and regulations.
By partnering with Absolute Immigration, AHA members will gain access to a valuable resource in navigating the Australian immigration landscape. Our expertise and personalised approach ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process for hospitality professionals, supporting the industry’s workforce and contributing to its continued success.
We invite AHA members to contact us for a consultation to discuss their specific immigration needs with our expert team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.