SAF Levy

The Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy is a contribution that employers are required to pay when nominating a skilled worker for certain visas, including the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186). The purpose of the SAF Levy is to contribute to the training of Australian workers and to support initiatives that improve the skill levels of the Australian workforce.

Key Points about the SAF Levy:
  1. Amount: The amount of the SAF Levy depends on the size and turnover of the sponsoring business, as well as the duration of the visa being applied for. As of recent updates, the SAF Levy for most businesses is:
    • AUD 3,000 for each year or part thereof for each TSS visa year.
    • AUD 5,000 for each year or part thereof for each ENS visa year.
  2. Duration: The SAF Levy is payable for each year or part thereof of the visa duration. For example, if a TSS visa is granted for a period of two years, the SAF Levy would be payable for each year of the visa duration.
  3. Payment: Employers are required to pay the SAF Levy at the time of lodging the nomination application for the visa. The payment is made online through the Department of Home Affairs' ImmiAccount system or through another approved payment method.
  4. Exemptions: Some employers may be exempt from paying the SAF Levy, such as certain religious institutions, charitable organizations, and government agencies. Additionally, certain visa applicants may also be exempt from the SAF Levy, such as applicants nominated under a Labour Agreement.
  5. Purpose: The revenue generated from the SAF Levy is used to fund initiatives and programs aimed at training Australian workers and increasing the skill levels of the local workforce. This includes funding for apprenticeships, traineeships, and other vocational education and training programs.

It's important for employers and visa applicants to be aware of the SAF Levy requirements and ensure that the levy is paid correctly as part of the visa application process. The Department of Home Affairs website provides detailed information about the SAF Levy, including eligibility criteria, payment methods, and exemptions.