Australia’s skilled migration framework continues to evolve in line with global economic trends and international partnerships.

In August 2025, new legislation came into effect recognising the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As part of this change, certain Labour Market Testing (LMT) obligations have been removed for employers seeking to sponsor UAE professionals.

This change is significant for businesses looking to sponsor skilled workers from the UAE and reflects Australia’s ongoing commitment to aligning migration policy with trade and investment goals.

So what does this mean for employers? Here’s what you need to know.

 

Understanding Labour Market Testing (LMT)

Before an Australian employer can sponsor an overseas worker under most skilled visa programs, they are required to conduct Labour Market Testing. This typically means advertising the role locally and proving that no suitable Australian candidate was available.

LMT is designed to:

• Protect local employment opportunities,
• Limit unnecessary reliance on international workers, and
• Promote fairness in recruitment processes.

However, these requirements can be waived under specific international trade agreements, such as CEPA, to encourage global mobility and economic cooperation.

Key Takeaways from the CEPA Amendment

The Migration (International Trade Obligations Relating to Labour Market Testing) Amendment (CEPA) Determination 2025 officially incorporates CEPA into Australia’s migration framework. This introduces the following changes:

• LMT exemptions now apply to eligible UAE citizens sponsored under certain skilled visa programs.
• The amendment ensures Australian immigration law aligns with trade and customs reforms under CEPA.
• These changes help Australia meet its international obligations under the agreement.

Put simply, this reform means a simplified visa process for eligible UAE professionals and a more efficient pathway for Australian employers to bring in needed skills.

Why CEPA Is More Than Just a Trade Deal

CEPA is Australia’s first formal economic agreement with a Middle Eastern country, but it goes well beyond traditional trade.

It includes provisions to boost cooperation in:

• Goods and services trade,
• Cross-border investment,
• Digital commerce and IP protection,
• Environmental sustainability, and
• Economic participation of women and Indigenous communities.

This broad agreement supports a shared vision for inclusive and future-focused economic growth between Australia and the UAE, and skilled migration plays a central role in that relationship.

What This Means for Australian Businesses

The introduction of LMT exemptions under CEPA offers several practical benefits for employers:

• Accelerated visa processing for UAE nationals, thanks to reduced documentation requirements.
• Lower administrative overhead, with no need to advertise positions or demonstrate domestic recruitment efforts for applicable roles.
• Strategic advantage for sectors like tech, energy, financial services, and consulting-  especially those facing local talent shortages.
• Enhanced access to UAE talent pools and improved global competitiveness.

Important: Not all roles or visa subclasses qualify. Employers must still meet sponsorship and compliance obligations, and exemptions are only available in CEPA-covered scenarios.

What It Means for UAE Skilled Workers

This legislative update could make it significantly easier for UAE professionals to access employment opportunities in Australia. Benefits include:

• Simplified sponsorship with fewer bureaucratic hurdles,
• Increased mobility between the two countries, and
• Improved access to in-demand industries across Australia.

How Hartman Immigration Can Support You

With trade-linked migration rules growing in complexity, it’s essential to have expert guidance when planning sponsorships or visa applications. At Hartman Immigration, we provide strategic support to both employers and skilled workers, ensuring compliance with CEPA and other trade-related exemptions.

Our team can assist with:

• Confirming whether your case qualifies for an LMT exemption;
• Preparing CEPA-aligned nomination and visa applications;
• Developing tailored visa strategies for your workforce needs, and
• Avoiding common pitfalls that could delay or jeopardise an application.

Common Questions

Do I still need to advertise job roles before sponsoring someone from the UAE?
Not necessarily. If the visa and occupation fall within CEPA’s scope, LMT may not be required.

When did this change take effect?
The amendment commenced in August 2025, aligning with broader trade reforms under CEPA.

Which visa types are impacted?
This change primarily affects the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa.

Is CEPA removing LMT requirements entirely?
No. The exemption applies only in specific cases involving eligible UAE nationals and covered occupations.

How do I know if my business qualifies?
Professional advice is recommended. We can assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.

In Summary

The inclusion of CEPA in Australia’s migration framework marks a shift toward more streamlined international talent mobility. For businesses seeking to engage skilled workers from the UAE, this presents a timely opportunity to tap into new talent with reduced compliance hurdles.

If you’re exploring these options — whether you’re an employer or a skilled migrant — reach out to Hartman Immigration for clear advice, tailored strategies, and expert support across every stage of the migration process.