The Training Visa (Subclass 407) presents a fantastic opportunity for Australian employers to tap into a global pool of semi-skilled international graduates. This visa allows businesses to sponsor talented international candidates for training and giving them the chance to gain valuable hands-on experience in an Australian workplace while developing their skills in a real-work setting.

What is the Training Visa (Subclass 407)?

The 407 Visa is designed to foster the exchange of knowledge, skills, and experience between Australia and other countries. Through this visa, employers can sponsor international candidates who meet the visa requirements and have secured a position in a designated training or internship program. These programs provide the international candidates with practical, industry-specific training that enhances their skills and supports their career development in Australia.

Why employers should consider the Training Visa

The 407 Visa brings numerous benefits for employers looking to expand their workforce and improve their skills pool:

Skill development: Employers have the opportunity to help shape the future of global talent by offering hands-on training and mentorship. By providing practical training, businesses can develop candidates’ skills further, ensuring they become high-quality assets to the Australian workforce.
Cultural diversity: Bringing international talent into the workplace can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. The varied cultural perspectives and ideas international employees bring can be a significant advantage for companies looking to stay ahead in a fast-paced, global economy.
Cost-effective recruitment: The Training Visa offers a cost-effective recruitment solution. Since 407 Visa holders are typically in training positions, employers are not required to offer the same wages or conditions as they would to permanent employees. This allows companies to bring in skilled individuals at a lower cost compared to traditional hiring processes.

The Training Visa process: how it works

At QLearning, we make the process simple and efficient for both employers and international candidates. Here’s how it works:

Identifying the candidate – We collaborate with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Australia, who provide us with the details of potential candidates. We then reach out to the candidates to understand their qualifications and job preferences.
Matching with employers – We work with employers to identify suitable industries and training opportunities that align with the candidate’s skills. After contacting potential employers, we explain the benefits of hiring through the 407 Visa program, including the chance to bring in skilled workers at minimal cost.
Interview process – We arrange a virtual interview between the employer and the candidate. If the employer is happy with the candidate, we move forward with the necessary documentation and legal procedures.
Finalising the visa – Once everything is in place, we complete all the paperwork and facilitate the process of bringing the candidate to Australia. The entire process can take anywhere from 10 to 60 days, depending on the specific circumstances.

How the 407 Visa benefits employers

No cost induction for employers

Partnering with QLearning means there are no upfront costs for employers. We work with reputable RTOs that manage all the legal requirements, documentation, and visa fees associated with the 407 Visa. This makes the induction process easy and free for the employer.

Skilled workers with global exposure

Candidates coming through the 407 Visa typically have up to 4 years of international work experience. This gives them a unique perspective and valuable skills that they bring to their Australian employers. The visa is granted for up to 2 years, allowing employers to benefit from their expertise for an extended period.

Cost-effective training and recruitment

One of the most appealing aspects of the 407 Visa is its flexibility when it comes to wages. Since the visa is for training purposes, there is no government-mandated minimum salary requirement. Employers can hire skilled international workers and pay them the same minimum wages as domestic workers while offering them the opportunity to grow professionally.

Two-Year contract with the option to extend

The 407 Visa is initially granted for up to two-year period. However, it can be extended if both the employer and the employee agree. During this time, the candidate works full-time, but only for the sponsoring employer. The position must be a training role, and the worker does not need to enrol in any formal courses or educational programs. They are already skilled professionals with significant experience in their field.

Employers have the flexibility to extend the contract if they’re satisfied with the candidate’s performance, or they can choose to cancel the contract early if needed (for example, if the worker is not meeting expectations.)

Tips for writing an effective training plan

As part of the 407 Visa application process, employers need to submit a detailed and auditable Training Plan that outlines the training the candidate will receive during their time in Australia. A well-crafted training plan is essential to ensure that the visa application is successful. Here are some helpful tips:

Plan ahead – Preparing a training plan requires careful attention to detail and may involve creating additional documents, so be sure to set aside enough time to develop it thoroughly.
Understand the regulations — There are specific rules around the hours of training required, employment experience, and other conditions. Make sure you are familiar with these requirements before you begin writing the plan.
Describe the role — Clearly explain the job position the trainee will be in, including their duties and how the role fits within the company. Be sure to reference the eligible occupation and its associated ANZSCO code.
Focus on the Trainee’s development — Remember, the training plan is about helping the trainee grow. While you may have business goals, the primary focus should be on the candidate’s professional development and the specific skills they will gain.
Demonstrate the need for Training — Show that there is a genuine need for the trainee to undergo this training by outlining the skills gap that the program is designed to fill.
Use position descriptions — Ensure that the skills and tasks described in the training plan align with the duties outlined in the Position Description for the role.
Outline training tasks — Break down the training program into specific tasks or modules that the trainee will undertake, ensuring a logical progression as their skills develop.
Define the training outcomes — Identify the key outcomes the trainee will achieve upon completing the program, including specific tasks or skills they will be proficient in. This helps demonstrate the value of the training program to both the candidate and the employer.

At QLearning, we specialise in assisting both businesses and candidates with the 407 Visa process. We can guide you through every step, from writing your training plan to arranging interviews and handling all legal matters.

If you’re interested in learning more about how we can support your business with international talent, reach out to us for a free consultation today!