Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) Application: Employer's Document Checklist

Before an Australian business can nominate and sponsor skilled overseas workers on visas like the Skills in Demand (SID) (Subclass 482) or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) (Subclass 494), it must first be approved as a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS).

To gain this approval, the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) requires evidence that your business is operating lawfully, is financially viable, and has a strong record of compliance with Australian workplace laws.

Standard Business Sponsor (SBS) Document Checklist

Here is a checklist of documents employers must provide for a successful SBS application.

Business Identity and Registration

The Department must verify that your business is a legitimate, legally registered entity in Australia.

Australian Business Number (ABN) / Australian Company Number (ACN)
ASIC Company Extract
Business Name Registration

Financial Viability and Operating Capacity

You must prove that your business has the financial capacity to pay the sponsored employee the required market salary and meet all sponsorship obligations.

Financial Statements
Business Tax Returns
Business Activity Statements (BAS)
Bank Statements
Accountant’s Letter

Business Structure Documents

Depending on how your business is legally structured, you may need to provide additional documentation to establish who holds legal liability.

Trust Deed
Franchise Agreement
Partnership agreement outlining the structure and liabilities of the partners.

Proof of Lawful Operations

The Department wants to see evidence that the business is actively trading in Australia.

Commercial Lease Agreement
Contracts and Invoices
Organisational Chart

Compliance and Employment Practices

Workers Compensation Insurance
Employment Contracts

Why Engage with AHC Lawyers?

Applying for an SBS takes time; don’t act alone if potential issues could lead to an SBS refusal. If gathering documents is confusing, or your company may need to address potential issues, our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law at Agape Henry Crux can review your circumstances and prepare a legal submission, with supporting evidence, to address the Department’s concerns.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help

Contact our AHC Lawyers team today for a confidential strategy session. The team specialises in complex work-sponsored visa matters and has helped many clients secure their SBS to grow their businesses. Consider speaking with one of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, Jason Ling or Angela De Silva, as they are experts in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment for professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English and Mandarin. We can also help you arrange an interpreter if this isn't your language.

Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, is recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™ and the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards and in the 2027 edition of The Best Law Firms™ - Australia.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.

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