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Last updated 29 October 2026

GRIA has merged with Hire Australia. Hire Australia now handles recruitment, registration and enquiries. Australian Immigration Agency (AIA) is our immigration partner.

Visa pathways

Choose a pathway that fits the role and the person

A job offer is one part of an international hire. Visa eligibility, employer sponsorship and any professional registration also need to be considered. Start by checking which occupations and roles are eligible.

Hire Australia handles recruitment. AIA assesses the immigration options for employers, candidates and their families. This overview explains the main pathways to discuss with an agent.

15+years of migration experience at AIA
MARAregistered migration agents
MIAMigration Institute of Australia members
A starting point

Work, regional and family pathways

482 · Skills in Demand

An employer-sponsored temporary work visa. AIA checks the relevant stream, occupation and requirements for the proposed role and applicant.

186 · Employer Nomination Scheme

A permanent employer-sponsored pathway for eligible applicants. A temporary visa or job offer does not automatically establish eligibility.

494 · Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional

An employer-sponsored regional pathway. The location, employer, role and applicant all need to meet the relevant requirements.

191 · Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)

A permanent visa with Regional Provisional and Hong Kong streams. Eligibility depends on the stream and your circumstances. AIA can assess whether it is relevant to you.

407 · Training

A temporary visa for workplace-based training, not for filling workforce shortages. Sponsorship, and in most cases a nomination, must be approved before the visa application. Discuss the training with AIA first.

Family visas

Partner, parent and child pathways may be relevant to your family. Eligibility and conditions vary; discuss each family member with AIA.

Plan ahead

Check eligibility before making plans

Visa options depend on the role, the employer and the applicant. AIA can give you a current eligibility check and a written quote before you decide how to proceed. After the hire, see compliance and visa management for the sponsor obligations to plan for.

Migration fees are quoted case by case by AIA, in writing. Government fees are charged separately by the Australian Government.

What AIA needs to understand

  • The occupation, duties and work location
  • The applicant's qualifications, experience and English
  • Current visa status and work rights, if already in Australia
  • Employer sponsorship requirements
  • Any family members and longer-term goals
Your questions

Common pathway questions

General information is a starting point. AIA can check the requirements for your circumstances.

Does a temporary visa guarantee permanent residence?

No. Any later permanent visa has its own requirements. Ask AIA to assess the options against your circumstances and the current rules. Our visa and legal FAQs answer more common questions.

What if none of these pathways fits?

There may be other options, including skilled migration or arrangements relevant to a particular region or sector. AIA can check what is available and suitable.

How long will it take and what will it cost?

Timing and costs vary. Ask AIA for a current eligibility check and a written quote for the proposed work. Government fees are separate.

Official sources

The rules on this page come from these official pages. Requirements change, so check the current version before you act.

Start with your hiring needs

Tell Hire Australia about the role. If a candidate needs sponsorship, AIA can check current visa eligibility.