GTES Visa: Attract Top Talent for Your Australian Startup
In today’s competitive global landscape, startups must innovate and adapt quickly to thrive. One of the biggest challenges for growing businesses is accessing highly skilled talent to fill niche roles that are vital to success. The Global Talent Employer Sponsored (GTES) visa provides Australian startups with a unique opportunity to attract top global professionals, enabling them to build world-class teams and stay ahead of the curve.
At SLEEK MIGRATION, we specialize in helping startups unlock the potential of the GTES visa. Led by Dr. Majid Panahandeh, a seasoned entrepreneur and migration expert, our team is uniquely equipped to guide you through every step of the process. With firsthand experience as a startup founder and years of navigating Australia’s migration system, Dr. Panahandeh can help you attract the talent your business needs to grow and thrive.

Why the GTES Visa is a Game-Changer for Startups
The GTES Startup Stream is designed specifically for businesses in tech-based or STEM-related fields. It offers a streamlined pathway to sponsor global talent for niche roles that cannot be filled through local recruitment or other visa programs. Here’s why the GTES visa is an essential tool for Australian startups:
Access to Highly Skilled Talent
Hire professionals with expertise in AI, software development, biotechnology, and other advanced fields.
Flexibility and Stability
Sponsor up to five positions per year, with 4-year Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visas available.
Pathway to Retention
Transition sponsored employees to permanent residency after three years, fostering long-term stability.
Accelerated Processing
Simplified applications and faster processing allow startups to scale quickly.
The GTES visa isn’t just about filling vacancies—it’s about empowering startups to innovate, grow, and create new opportunities in Australia’s economy.
Who is Eligible for the GTES Startup Stream? Startup Eligibility
Startup Eligibility
To access the GTES Startup Stream, businesses must:
- Operate in a tech-based or STEM-related field (e.g., digital technology, biomedical innovation, agtech).
- Demonstrate contributions to job creation and skills transfer for Australian workers.
- Be endorsed by the GTES Startup Advisory Panel as a viable and genuine startup.
Secure funding of at least AUD 50,000 from a registered Early Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnership or receive an Accelerating Commercialisation Grant.
Employee Eligibility
Workers sponsored under the GTES must meet the following criteria:
- Skills and Experience
At least three years of relevant experience in their field.
- Qualifications
Education and skills must align with the requirements of the role.
- Income Threshold
Minimum annual earnings of AUD 80,000, including equity, with a cash component meeting the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold.
- Health and Character
Satisfy Australia’s health, character, and security requirements.
This is a critical section that links your career episodes to the competency standards. Use clear references and demonstrate how each competency element has been addressed.
Key Benefits of the GTES Visa
Hiring through the GTES visa can transform your startup. Here’s how:
- Expand Your Talent Pool
Gain access to global experts with niche skills essential for innovation.
- Foster Innovation
Build a team that drives new ideas, develops cutting-edge products, and accelerates business growth.
- Secure Long-Term Talent
Transition employees to permanent residency, ensuring continuity and stability.
- Boost Productivity
Fill critical roles faster with priority processing and reduced administrative hurdles.
How SLEEK MIGRATION Can Help
Navigating the GTES visa process requires a clear understanding of eligibility requirements, application procedures, and compliance obligations. At SLEEK MIGRATION, we go beyond the basics to offer tailored solutions that align with your startup’s unique goals.
Why Choose Us?
1.Expert Guidance
With a PhD in Applied Physics from Nanyang Technological University (ranked #11 globally), Dr. Majid Panahandeh brings unparalleled analytical and problem-solving skills to migration law.
2.Entrepreneurial Insight
As a successful startup founder, Dr. Panahandeh understands the challenges of scaling a business and attracting top talent.
3.End-to-End Support
From securing Startup Advisory Panel endorsements to lodging visa applications, we handle every detail.
4.Customized Strategies
We focus on your business’s specific needs, crafting applications that highlight your contributions to the Australian economy.
Steps to Access the GTES Visa
Here’s how SLEEK MIGRATION can help your startup secure top talent through the GTES visa:
1.Analyze Skill Shortages
Identify roles that cannot be filled locally or through standard visa programs.
2.Prepare Endorsement Applications
Work with our team to secure approval from the GTES Startup Advisory Panel.
3.Submit a GTES Agreement Request
Lodge a complete application with supporting documentation.
4.Nominate Candidates
Use your unique GTES code to nominate highly skilled overseas professionals.
5.Apply for Visas
Assist nominated workers with their visa applications, ensuring all requirements are met.
Why Dr. Panahandehfard’s Expertise Matters
As a migration expert and entrepreneur, Dr. Majid Panahandeh offers a unique perspective that combines business acumen with technical expertise. His scientific background equips him to handle complex cases with precision, while his entrepreneurial experience allows him to relate directly to the challenges faced by startups.
Dr. Panahandeh has successfully raised venture capital, secured government grants, and built high-performing teams. He leverages this experience to help startups craft compelling visa applications that demonstrate their value to Australia’s economy.
Unlock Your Startup’s Potential
The GTES visa isn’t just a migration tool—it’s a gateway to growth, innovation, and success in Australia’s competitive startup ecosystem. With the right guidance, your business can attract the talent it needs to thrive.
Contact SLEEK MIGRATION today to learn how we can help your startup access the GTES visa program. With Dr. Majid Panahandeh’s expertise and a personalized approach, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
Book your free consultation now and start building the future of your business with the best global talent.
FAQs
What is the GTES Startup Stream?
A visa program enabling tech/STEM startups in Australia to sponsor global talent for niche roles.
What are the business eligibility criteria?
Operate in tech/STEM fields, secure AUD 50,000 funding, and be endorsed by the GTES Startup Advisory Panel.
How does the GTES visa benefit startups?
Access global talent, foster innovation, ensure long-term retention, and expedite hiring.
What are the worker requirements?
3+ years of experience, matching qualifications, AUD 80,000+ salary, and health/character clearance.
How can SLEEK MIGRATION help?
Expert support for endorsements, applications, and visa processes tailored to your needs.