For many South Africans, the FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) lifestyle in Australia sounds like the dream: high salaries, international work experience, and a foot in the door to a booming economy.
But here’s the catch.
The FIFO program is often misunderstood. While it’s sold as a quick ticket to Australia, what people don’t realise is that these positions don’t offer a pathway to permanent residency, and the visa process is far more complex than most expect.
What is FIFO?
FIFO stands for Fly-In Fly-Out – a work arrangement commonly used in industries like mining, where employees fly into a remote site to work for a period, then fly home again. It’s often marketed as flexible, high-paying, and easy to access.
But it’s not a shortcut to migration. And in many cases, it’s far from ideal.
Understanding the Visa: Subclass 482
Most FIFO jobs are offered under the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482). This visa requires:
- An Australian employer with an approved sponsorship agreement
- A formal job offer and nomination
- A full visa application process (including English, skills assessments, and sometimes health and character checks)
And here’s what it costs employers:
- AUD420 to become an approved sponsor
- AUD330 to nominate a worker under the 482
- AUD540 for the ENS 186 nomination (if applicable)
- Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) Levy, which varies depending on business size and employment duration – and yes, it’s tax deductible, but still a significant cost
Sounds complicated? It is.
And the harsh reality? This visa is employer-controlled. You’re tied to that company. If they decide they no longer need you, you’re out – and so is your visa.
A Better Path: 189, 190 or 491 Visas
Now, here’s the good news: there are other options.
Residency pathways like the 189 (Skilled Independent), 190 (Skilled Nominated) and 491 (Skilled Regional) visas offer a far more secure future. These visas are either permanent or lead directly to residency – meaning you control your future, not your employer.
Even better? With residency, you can still do FIFO work – but now with rights, flexibility, and a long-term plan.
Why This Matters – Especially if You’re Over 45
One of the most heartbreaking trends we see at Greener Pastures Immigration is South Africans doing FIFO work on the 482 visa after the age of 45, hoping they’ll eventually qualify for residency.
They won’t.
All residency pathways to Australia have a hard age limit of 45 – and once you’re past it, your options close unless you already have a pathway in motion.
Don’t let short-term opportunities block your long-term goals.
The Greener Pastures Way: Informed. Empowered. Strategic.
At Greener Pastures, we’re passionate about helping South Africans migrate smart. We don’t just fill out forms – we give you a roadmap.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, tradesperson, or teacher, we help you understand all your options – including how to use FIFO work as part of a smart, long-term migration plan, not a dead-end detour.
So before you jump on that plane…
👉 Ask yourself: Am I building a life, or just buying time?
👉 Then ask us: What’s the right visa strategy for me?
Let’s Chat About Your Future
Australia is full of opportunity – but only if you know how to grab it.
Let’s talk. Book a consultation with our expert team and take the first step toward a secure, rewarding life abroad.
