Flexible Work Arrangements
Since 14 September 2009 the Subclass 457 visa has supported the same flexible working arrangements for medical practitioners that are available under the Subclass 422 visa. Since this date, doctors holding a Subclass 457 visa may work:
- for the employer who sponsored them in the position nominated in the nomination application
- for multiple unrelated employers
- as an independent contractor.
Recognition of the special needs of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) under the Subclass 457 visa program will result in a better outcome for our clients in the health profession, as it provides a more simplified pathway for sponsorship of IMGs including:
- access to e-lodgement and streamlined processing
- flexibility for IMGs to work as an independent contractor or for several employers whilst being sponsored by the one sponsor
- reduced confusion as to the appropriate choice of visa.
Work arrangements for permanent residency
To be eligible for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS), the IMG must be employed by the nominating employer to fill a full-time position. IMGs can work for other employers provided they continue to be a full-time employee under an employment contract with the nominating employer.
Arrangements for IMGs to work as independent contractors will not be accepted under the ENS or RSMS.