Key facts The program is uncapped and driven by employer demand. This generally means employers will sponsor overseas workers more in times of high economic growth and low unemployment. Businesses can employ overseas workers for up to four years in skilled occupations only. Businesses must meet (or commit to meet) the prescribed training benchmarks for the program, which requires an ongoing commitment to training activities for Australian citizens and permanent residents. Strong worker protection measures are in place to ensure that overseas skilled workers are provided the same workplace rights as Australian citizens. How to apply To sponsor an employee from overseas under the subclass 457 visa program, the following three stages are required: Sponsorship -- the employer applies for approval as a standard business sponsor. This is required to nominate an occupation for a subclass 457 visa. Employees (visa applicants) Overseas skilled workers and any dependants must apply for and be granted a visa to travel to, or remain in Australia. It's important to note that a subclass 457 visa application cannot be processed if your application is not supported by an approved sponsor and an approved nomination. Subclass 457 visa holders can: work in Australia for a period of between one day and four years bring any eligible dependants with them to Australia -- dependants can work and study after entering Australia, have no limit on the number of times they can travel in and out of Australia. There are several requirements that prospective visa applicants must meet