Skilling Australians Fund Levy (SAF Levy)
The Skilling Australians Fund Levy is a mandatory government charge payable by employers who nominate overseas workers under certain employer sponsored visas.
The levy is paid by the employer only and cannot be passed on to the visa applicant.
The purpose of the SAF Levy is to support the training and development of Australian workers.
Who Must Pay the SAF Levy
The SAF Levy applies to employers nominating workers under the following visas:
Temporary Skill Shortage visa Subclass 482
Employer Nomination Scheme visa Subclass 186
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa Subclass 187
The levy is payable at the nomination stage of the visa process.
SAF Levy Amounts
For TSS Subclass 482 Visas
Small business
Annual turnover less than AUD 10 million
AUD 1,200 per year of nomination
Large business
Annual turnover AUD 10 million or more
AUD 1,800 per year of nomination
The total levy is calculated based on the length of the nominated visa period.
For ENS 186 and RSMS 187 Visas
Small business
AUD 3,000 one time levy
Large business
AUD 5,000 one time levy
Important SAF Levy Rules
The levy must be paid in full at the time of nomination
The levy is non transferable to the visa applicant
Payment of the levy does not guarantee visa approval
If the nomination is refused or withdrawn, the levy is generally not refundable
When Can a SAF Levy Refund Apply
Refunds are limited and only considered in specific circumstances, including:
Nomination is withdrawn before a decision is made
Visa application is refused due to reasons not related to employer conduct
Sponsored worker does not commence employment
Sponsored worker ceases employment within the first 12 months
Refunds are calculated on a pro rata basis depending on the unused nomination period.
Why the SAF Levy Matters
Failure to correctly pay or declare the SAF Levy can result in:
Nomination refusal
Visa refusal
Compliance action against the sponsoring business
Accurate assessment of business turnover and correct levy payment is critical.
How Visa Aid Can Help
Visa Aid assists employers with:
Determining correct SAF Levy amounts
Business size assessment and turnover classification
Employer sponsorship compliance
Nomination and visa application preparation
Refund eligibility assessment where applicable
Our approach is accurate, compliant, and risk focused.
Speak With an Immigration Specialist
If you are unsure about your SAF Levy obligations or employer sponsorship eligibility, professional advice is essential before lodging a nomination.
Book a consultation with Visa Aid to ensure your sponsorship process is compliant and correct from the start.
