One of the most common questions from overseas applicants is whether it is possible to secure employment in Australia before actually moving. The short answer is yes, but the reality is more nuanced. It depends on your occupation, your experience, and, importantly, your visa eligibility pathway.
For many people, the confusion starts with two competing ideas: either you must have a job offer first, or you can migrate first and look for work later. In practice, both approaches exist, but they apply in different circumstances.
Do I Need a Job Offer Before Coming to Australia?
You do not always need a job offer before coming to Australia. Australia offers both employer-sponsored pathways and independent skilled migration pathways, and whether you need a job offer depends on which route you take.
Employer-sponsored visas (job offer usually required)
If you are applying under employer sponsorship, you generally must secure a job offer first. The employer then nominates you for a visa.
Common options include:
- Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
In these cases, the employer plays a central role. Without a genuine job offer from an approved sponsor, the visa process usually cannot proceed.
Skilled migration visas (no job offer required)
Other pathways allow you to apply independently without an employer. These include:
- Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491)
Instead of a job offer, these visas are based on factors such as your occupation, age, English ability, qualifications, and work experience. If you are successful, you may receive an invitation to apply.
Is It Realistic to Get a Job Offer While Overseas?
It is possible to get a job offer while overseas, but it is not always straightforward. Australian employers can and do hire candidates from overseas, particularly in occupations where there are genuine skill shortages. However, they tend to be selective and often prefer candidates who are either already in Australia or have clear visa eligibility.
Industries where overseas hiring is more common include:
- Healthcare and aged care
- Engineering and infrastructure
- Construction and skilled trades
- Information technology and cybersecurity
- Certain hospitality roles in regional areas
Even in these sectors, employers will usually look for strong evidence of:
- Relevant qualifications
- Several years of experience
- English proficiency
- Ability to meet licensing or registration requirements in Australia
Why Some Applicants Receive Job Offers and Others Don’t
There is often a perception that applying online will automatically lead to interviews or offers. In reality, Australian employers tend to be cautious when hiring internationally. Some of the common barriers include:
- The employer is not registered as a sponsor
- The occupation is not on a relevant skilled list
- The candidate lacks Australian-standard qualifications
- No clear visa pathway is established
- Competition from local applicants already in Australia
This is why job offers from overseas are more likely when there is a clear skills shortage in a specific occupation.
The Risk of Recruitment Scams
Unfortunately, one of the growing concerns for overseas applicants is recruitment fraud. Scams often appear in the form of:
- Fake job offers with guaranteed visas
- Requests for ‘processing fees’ or ‘sponsorship charges’
- Unverified recruitment agencies
- False employer documents or contracts
- Pressure to pay quickly to secure a position
It is important to understand that in Australia, legitimate employers do not charge workers for sponsorship or job placement. Any request for payment upfront should be treated with caution.
What Is the More Practical Approach?
For most applicants, the most successful pathway is not purely job hunting or purely migration-based. It is a combination of both. A practical approach usually involves:
- Checking if your occupation is in demand in Australia
- Understanding whether your skills require formal assessment
- Identifying suitable visa options early
- Applying strategically for roles that offer sponsorship
- Ensuring your documents and experience align with Australian standards
This approach improves your chances of securing both a visa pathway and employment.
What This Means for Your Migration Journey
Yes, it is possible to get a job in Australia before moving, but it is not guaranteed and should not be relied on as the only pathway. Some applicants secure sponsorship from overseas, while others enter through skilled migration first and then find work once they are in Australia.
What matters most is having the right alignment between your occupation, experience, and visa pathway from the outset. A well-planned approach can make a significant difference to your chances of success and help you avoid unnecessary delays or setbacks.
If you are unsure which pathway applies to your situation, SALIA Lawyers & Associates Pty Ltd can help you assess your options and guide you through the most suitable visa and employment strategy for Australia.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
