The GTES process involves two main stages: negotiating a GTES agreement (or using an existing one) and lodging the visa application.

1. Agreement (Sponsorship & Endorsement)

Established Business Stream

• The business must be an accredited sponsor, have an annual turnover of at least AUD 4 million for the past two years, or be publicly listed.
• The business must demonstrate how accessing GTES will benefit Australia (e.g., job creation, skill transfer).
• The employer must provide labour market testing evidence for each position.

Startup Stream

• The startup must operate in a technology-based or STEM-related field.
• The startup must be endorsed by the independent GTES Startup Advisory Panel as a viable and genuine operation.
• The employer must provide labour market testing evidence for each position and comply with workplace and immigration laws.

2. Visa Application

• Applicants must demonstrate they have highly specialised skills required for the nominated position.
• Evidence of salary meeting or exceeding the required threshold:
  • Established Business Stream: AUD 175,000.
  • Startup Stream: At least AUD 80,000 (cash component must meet or exceed the TSMIT).
• Applicants must pass health, character, and security checks.

Applicants must have no familial relationship with the business’s directors or shareholders.

Processing times can vary based on:

• The complexity of the agreement and visa application.
• The endorsement and accreditation status (accredited sponsors or endorsed startups may experience faster processing).
• The volume of applications at the Department of Home Affairs.

For the most up-to-date processing times, refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website.

• Below are some typical costs (in AUD) you may incur when applying under the GTES program. Fees are subject to change without notice:

  • GTES nomination application fee – $330
  • GTES Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy – $1,200 per nomination per year (for businesses with a turnover of under $10 Million) or $1,800 per year (for businesses with a turnover of over $10 Million)
  • GTES Visa application fee – Adult applicants – $3,115, Child Dependent – $780
  • Subsequent Temporary Application Charge (STAC) – $700 per applicant depending on previous visa history
  • Fees for skills assessments, English tests, health examinations, police checks, translations, etc – as applicable.
  • Professional fees for migration services are charged separately. These fees can vary depending on the level of service and your specific needs.

• The Global Talent Employer Sponsored (GTES) program offers advantages for both sponsors and visa applicants:

  For Sponsors

  • Access up to 20 positions per year under the Established Business Stream and 5 positions per year under the Startup Stream.
  • Faster, simpler agreement applications and priority processing.
  • Enhance business innovation by accessing top-tier global talent.

  For Visa Applicants

  • Temporary Residence in Australia: Live and work for up to four years.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible GTES visa holders may transition to permanent residence after two years, benefiting from age cap concessions.
  • Bring Family Members: Include eligible family members in your application.
  • Travel Rights: Travel in and out of Australia while your visa is valid.

   

We have extensive experience assisting businesses—ranging from established corporations to emerging startups—in navigating the GTES program. Our services include:

• Agreement Support: Guidance in obtaining or negotiating the GTES agreement and meeting accreditation or startup endorsement requirements.

• Nomination Process Assistance: Ensuring the nominated occupation, salary and role meet the requirements.
• Document Preparation: Guiding you in gathering and organising all necessary documents for a complete application.​
• Application Preparation and Lodgement: Preparing and lodging the application accurately and promptly.​
• Ongoing Support: Providing continuous assistance and updates throughout the application process to ensure a smooth experience.​

Compliance and Updates: Keeping track of regulations, ensuring ongoing compliance, and updating you on any policy changes.