During the pandemic the number of working holiday makers plunged from 141,000 to just 2000 workers putting pressure on the domestic talent market. We are now slowly seeing signs of recovery with 41,000 new visa’s granted and expected to arrive in the next few months.

Now is the time to get up to speed with the latest changes in visa’s immigration and sponsorship if you are one of the many businesses looking to hire international talent.

The good news is the Government has relaxed the rules (slightly!) around Working Visas.

Here are some of the highlights:

Whereas previously Visa holders could only work for one employer for six months, they can now work for employers longer than this period. This currently holds until December 2022, but may be extended after this. For more information click here

Another change has been the extension of hours permitted to be worked by candidates on Student Visas. Previously these candidates could only work 20 hours per fortnight – but in recognition of the talent shortage this has been relaxed and they can now work 40 hours or more. See more here:

If you choose to Sponsor an employee, be aware there is likely to be a rush and consequent delays on processing these applications. The most important thing to have organised in advance is “labour market testing”. This means that your role must be featured on specific national websites for at least 28 days. To ensure continuity of employment, it is recommended that you start the Sponsorship process two months in advance of the Visa expiring.



If you do require any assistance or advice on working with Visa candidates or advertising your roles for correct labour market testing, please get in touch with SCC Talent.