He Helped Build the Business. We Helped Him Stay.

The Dream

A family-owned café business in the ACT was growing. After opening a second location, the owners needed someone who could oversee both stores, someone they could trust. They turned to a dedicated employee who had already proven himself. He stepped up as the area manager, handling everything from payroll to supplier negotiations. With confidence in his abilities and commitment, the business nominated him for a 187 visa under the Direct Entry stream.

The Problem

The Department refused the application. They argued the tasks did not align with the Retail Manager (General) occupation. Despite managing two cafés for more than four years, the nominee’s role was dismissed as not genuine. The refusal put the business at risk of losing its key staff member and the nominee’s path to permanent residency came to a halt.

The Solution

Solve Migration appealed to the Tribunal. We submitted full evidence: business activity records, financials, employment contracts and detailed breakdowns of the nominee’s responsibilities. The employer gave clear testimony explaining the nominee’s leadership across both sites and how vital he was to daily operations. We addressed concerns about recruitment efforts and franchise constraints, proving the nominee exercised real managerial control and flexibility, especially in pricing, staffing, marketing and supply chain management.

The Victory

The Tribunal accepted the evidence. They found the nominee’s tasks matched those of a Retail Manager (General) and the need for the role was genuine. The business operated in regional Australia, had made a real attempt to hire locally and had clearly relied on the nominee for consistent management. The refusal was set aside. The nomination was approved.

Their Words

“Solve Migration stood by us the whole way. They understood our business, our people and our challenges. Thanks to them, we have the support we need to keep growing.”

If you are in a similar situation, or know someone who may require professional assistance with a visa nomination, skills assessment, or Tribunal review matter, we encourage you to seek tailored advice.

You may contact Solve Migration for a confidential consultation:

Book a Consultation:
https://solvemigration.com/book-an-appointment/

Email:
ask@solvemigration.com

Our team can assess your circumstances, identify available pathways, and guide you through each stage of the process with clear and practical advice.