Last reviewed: 25 October 2026. Fees and income thresholds rose on 1 July 2026. There is no household worker visa in the sources we reviewed.
Adverts for “high paying domestic jobs in Sydney” often promise visas for cleaners and nannies. We did not find a specific domestic worker visa. This guide explains the legal options.
Quick answer
- The minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is A$26.44 an hour. Cleaning and care jobs are covered by awards, so ask for your award rate in writing.
- The Working Holiday visa (417 and 462) allows up to six months with one employer without permission. On the page we reviewed (April 2026), Nigeria was not listed as an eligible country.
- Sponsored domestic jobs are not a standard route. Employer-sponsored visas need an eligible occupation and the A$79,423 income threshold.
- Be careful of “live-in” offers with unclear pay or conditions.
Legal options
| Option | Who it suits | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Working Holiday 417/462 | Young people from listed countries | Age limits and a six month limit per employer |
| Student visa | International students | Work limits apply |
| Skills in Demand 482 | Skilled workers in eligible jobs | Needs sponsor and A$79,423 or market rate |
| Family or permanent visa | Partners and residents | Different visa category |
Know your rights
- You are entitled to at least the minimum wage or award rate whatever your visa.
- Ask for a payslip and a written agreement.
- You can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice.
Red flags and scams
- Anyone asking you to pay for a job offer, a sponsorship or a “guaranteed” visa.
- Job adverts with very high pay for beginners, or no interview.
- Contact only through WhatsApp, Telegram or a free email address with no company website or ABN.
- Fake government sites. Official sites end in .gov.au.
If you think you have been targeted, stop paying, keep all messages and receipts, and report it to Scamwatch. You can also email us at info@careerjobss.com.
Sources and references
- Hall and Wilcox: minimum wage increase 2026 (2 June 2026)
- One Planet Migration Law: working holiday visa (24 April 2026)
- Vialto Partners: income thresholds and fees from 1 July 2026 (2 July 2026)
- Fair Work Ombudsman
This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Australian rules, fees and thresholds change often, usually on 1 July. Always confirm the current position on the Department of Home Affairs website or with a registered migration agent before making decisions. Corrections are welcome at info@careerjobss.com.