Second Jobs, Volunteering and Overseas Work on a 482 Visa

Condition 8607 limits who a 482 visa holder can work for. Many people want to take on a second job, volunteer or keep working for an overseas employer. This guide explains what the Department allows, based on its current instructions on condition 8607. See also our page on condition 8607.

Secondary employment

A second job with another employer is generally not allowed. Unless your occupation is exempt, any extra work must be:

1. for your sponsor;
2. in your nominated occupation;
3. consistent with your nominated position; and
4. incidental to your main employment.

The only time you can work for other employers is during the 180 day period after your sponsored job has ended, while you look for a new sponsor.

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Volunteering

Unpaid voluntary work does not breach condition 8607, as long as it does not affect your ability to work full time in your nominated position. The Department expects you to get your sponsor’s written consent before you start. Receiving an honorarium or having expenses reimbursed can still be voluntary work. Volunteering does not count as work experience for visa purposes.

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Working while you are overseas

Condition 8607 governs work rights in Australia. The Department’s instructions say it does not affect employment while you are outside Australia, as long as that work and income are not related to any business activity in Australia. If the overseas work is substantial, the Department may question whether your Australian position is still genuine.

Working remotely for an overseas employer while you are physically in Australia is different. The instructions do not treat that as overseas work, so get advice before you take it on.

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Exempt occupations

If your nominated occupation is in the Department’s exempt occupations instrument, you can work for more than one employer at the same time, or as an independent contractor, in that occupation. The Department says this is designed for arrangements such as medical practitioners working across practices and company general managers sitting on several boards. You should give your sponsor written details of your other work.

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A side business or ABN work

Contracting through your own ABN, driving for delivery apps or running a side business is still work. Unless you are in an exempt occupation, or within the 180 day period after leaving your sponsor, it is likely to breach condition 8607.

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What you should do now

• Offered a second job: check whether it is for your sponsor and in your occupation. If not, decline it while you are employed by your sponsor.
• Want to volunteer: ask your sponsor for written consent and make sure it does not affect your hours.
• Working for an overseas employer: work done while you are outside Australia is generally fine. Get advice before doing remote work for them from Australia.
• In an exempt occupation: keep your sponsor updated in writing about your other employers and hours.