Most lawfully operating Australian businesses are eligible to apply for Temporary Activity Sponsorship. The key requirement is that the organisation must be genuinely operating in Australia and able to demonstrate it can meet its ongoing obligations as a sponsor.
Foreign government agencies operating in Australia – such as diplomatic or consular missions – are also eligible, as are organisations that operate superyachts or individuals who are the captain or owner of a superyacht. Commonwealth, State, and Territory government agencies can also apply.
The organisation does not need to be large or established for many years – but it does need to demonstrate financial stability and a genuine operational purpose for the sponsorship. The Department looks at the overall picture of the business and its capacity to support the sponsored individual during their stay.
If there is adverse information on public record about the business, its directors, or associated individuals, this will be considered in the assessment – though it does not automatically lead to refusal. Each application is assessed on its own merits.