Do I need a job offer and sponsor before applying for a Religious Worker visa?

This is a sponsored route, so you cannot apply speculatively. A licensed sponsoring organisation must first assign you a certificate of sponsorship that describes the religious work you will do.

You will also need to show you have enough personal savings to support yourself, unless your sponsor certifies that they will maintain you. Make sure your sponsor holds a valid licence for this specific route before you rely on their certificate, as the sponsor's status is essential to a valid application.