What Happens If a Sponsored Worker Resigns or Is Terminated?

Many employers worry about what happens if a sponsored worker leaves. This concern is completely normal, especially for businesses sponsoring someone for the first time.  

The short answer

If a sponsored worker resigns or is terminated, the employer is not responsible for finding them another visa; nor do they have the ability to have the worker’s visa cancelled. However, the employer does have reporting obligations under temporary employer-sponsored visa programmes.

What the employer must do

When a sponsored worker leaves, the business must notify the Department of Home Affairs within the required timeframe. This applies whether the worker resigns or the employment ends for other reasons.

Once reported, the employer’s responsibility usually ends. The visa holder then has a limited time to find another sponsor or make other visa arrangements.

What employers are not responsible for

Employers are not required to keep paying the worker after employment ends. They are also not required to arrange a new visa.

This is an important point, as many businesses mistakenly believe sponsorship locks them into an ongoing obligation no matter what happens.

Final thoughts

Sponsored employment works much like any other employment relationship, with additional reporting steps. Understanding this reduces fear and helps employers feel more confident about sponsorship.

Unsure about your responsibilities if a sponsored worker leaves?
Seven Corp can explain your obligations clearly and help you stay compliant.