I am going on 457 Sponsorship visa to Melbourne - Can my wife work?

Hello,

I am going to Melbourne for about 2 years on 457 (temporary work) visa. I have a couple of questions.

1. Is my wife eligible to work? My employer and few websites claim that she can work. But I would like to confirm if there are any reservations/exceptional cases.
2. How much does a part-time software engineer get paid in Australia, let's say with 3 years of experience in the field?

I appreciate the help.

-Jay

i am fairly confident in saying she will be able to work, however...

Contact Australian Immigration and get whatever they say in writing. Do not just listen to hearsay... that would be my best piece of advice. Phone Canberra and ask for a written letter to be emailed/ faxed, that way they can`t go back on what they say.

i thnk your employee needs to agree to her working so get that before u go as well.

hope that helps

Can't help with number 2, but if you're on a 457 visa, and your wife's visa has been issued by virtue of her being your partner (i.e. not an independent application), then yes, she's entitled to work. And even better, while you, as the sponsored applicant are tied to your employer, she can work for whomever she likes!!

(I was on my partner's 457 visa, so I know from experience)

Not only can she work for anyone she pleases. She is also not tied down to the minimum wage stipulated by the Department of Immigration for 457 visa holders. While this may be a spear in the side for some occupations, for others it means she will be paid more than what she would have been paid were she on a 457 visa.

As for question number two. You may have some luck ringing a recruitment company and speaking to an IT consutant. They would be conversant with what the market has to offer at this point in time.

Call Hays, Chandler McLeod or Hudson for more assistance.