Everything You Need to Know About the 407 Visa in Australia for Occupational Training

Australia is known for having strong industry standards of professional work. The Training (subclass 407) Visa is a great choice for individuals who want to improve their skills by obtaining training abroad in Australia. 

This visa provides the opportunity to receive hands-on training in real-world professional environments across Australia. The 407 visa will equip you with the skills you need for your current occupation or field of study. 

Taking the time to understand how this visa works can significantly simplify the application process. 

What is the 407 Visa? 

The subclass 407 visa is a temporary visa that allows applicants to enter Australia and participate in structured workplace-based training programs. 

Unlike the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) Visa, the 407 visa is not intended for general employment. Instead, it is designed for individuals seeking to develop or enhance their skills through supervised training, fostering professional development. 

The training involved under the 407 visa must be directly related to your current occupation and supported by a clear, structured training plan. Whether you are upgrading existing skills or leaning new ones, the focus should be on competitive hands-on leaning – not on performing actual work. This visa is designed for skill development, not solely for employment. 

Who is eligible to apply for the 407 visa? 

Eligibility for the 407 visa is based on three key pillars:  

Sponsor: Employers wishing to nominate you must first become an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor. This sponsor must be either: 

• An Australian commonwealth or state/territory government agency.

• Any person or organisation lawfully operating in Australia.

• In both cases, the sponsor must be able to demonstrate it can provide the nominated training and to meet certain obligations. 

Nomination: You must be formally nominated by your sponsor for a nominated occupational training position. The nomination must specify the type of training (Occupational Training required for registration, Professional Development, or Skills for Overseas Qualifications), details of the structured training program content, duration and supervision, and how the training meets your genuine skill development needs.  

The Applicant (You): 

• Have been nominated by an approved sponsor.

• Hold the skills, qualifications, and English language proficiency required (usually IELTS 4.5 or equivalent score in each band unless exempt)

• Have adequate health insurance for your stay.

• Meet the health and character criteria.

• Satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, by demonstrating a genuine intention to undertake training and depart Australia after your training ceases. 

Some Key Features of the 407 Visa: 

• Duration: This visa can be granted for up to 2 years, depending on the nominated training program.

• Work rights: The applicant can only for the sponsor in the nominated training position. Working for another employer is not permitted unless it is part of the structured training accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

• Study rights: Study is permitted to be undertaken. However, the primary focus must remain on occupational training as outlined in the structured training plan.

• Travel: This visa allows multiple entries into Australia during the period of validity.

• Pathway: The 407 visa is not a direct pathway to permanent residency. However, the skills and experience gained may strengthen future visa applications which lead to PR. 

The Application Process  

The application process involves several coordinated steps that must be followed by both the sponsor and the applicant. 

• Sponsorship: If the employer isn’t already approved, they must apply to become a Temporary Activities Sponsor.

• Nomination: The sponsor must then submit a nomination application for the training position, nominating the applicant.

• Visa Application: Once the nomination has been approved, the applicant must submit their visa application with ID, proof of skills, English results, evidence of health insurance, and any other required documentation.

• Assessment and Decision: The Department of Home Affairs will review and assess the nomination and visa application. 

Common Pitfalls and Challenges 

Pursuing the 407 visa requires careful planning. Some common challenges include: 

• Insufficient Training Plan: a well-structured training plan is essential for the success of a 407 nomination. application. The training plan must clearly outline the structure and methods of training to be undertaken, focusing on skills development that goes well beyond routine tasks. If the training plan lacks clarity in any of these areas, the application has a highly likelihood of refusal.

• Genuine Temporary Stay: An applicant must provide genuine evidence to the Department that that they intend to leave Australia at the completion of training.  

• Sponsor Obligations: Sponsors are legally bound by specific obligations under Australia immigration law. Choosing a sponsor who is unaware or poorly informed about these responsibilities can significantly jeopardise the success of the application.

• Training or Work: The primary distinction between training and work is that training is designed to help individuals improve their skills. However, work aims to fill a role with someone who already possess the skills required. For the 407 visa, it is important to demonstrate that the primary purpose of program is training, not employment.

• Processing Times: processing times for the training visa can vary significantly. It is important to carefully plan to ensure a smooth application process. 

Why Engaging an Immigration Lawyer is Highly Beneficial. 

Most applicants and sponsors employ the services of migration experts or experienced immigration lawyers who understand the process in detail. 

This can be a significant advantage to the application process as sponsorship obligations are complex, the training plan must be meticulously structured, and the visa application requires thorough preparation. These advisers will: 

• Provide an assessment on the sponsor's eligibility and obligations.

• Prepare a training plan that complies with relevant legislation.

• Assist the applicant to assemble the required documentation.

• Ensure both the nomination and visa applications are prepared accurately and meet the legal requirements.

• Provide their expertise on complex regulations and potential complications. 

Is Training in Australia on the 407 Visa Right for You? 

If you are seeking to advance your professional career, the Training (subclass 407) Visa offers an excellent opportunity to gain structured workplace training in Australia. 

If you have any opportunity from an approved Australian sponsor that aligns with your career aspirations, and you meet all the requirements, the 407 visa can be valuable for your professional growth. 

Need Help? 

Immigration law in Australia is complex. It is recommended that you seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer who can make this process streamlined and stress-free. 

Feel free to contact us for guidance and support with your 407 visa pathway. We’re here to help you every step of the way.