The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by their Australian employer. It’s one of the most direct routes to Australian PR for workers already employed in Australia on a 482 or similar visa.

What is the Subclass 186 Visa?

The ENS 186 visa grants permanent residency to skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. There are three streams: the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream for current 482 holders, the Direct Entry (DE) stream for overseas applicants, and the Labour Agreement stream for workers covered by a labour agreement.

🏠Permanent Residency

Permanent visa from day one

💼Employer Sponsored

Must be nominated by your Australian employer

🌍Live Anywhere

No restriction on where in Australia you live

👨‍👩‍👧Family Included

Bring your partner and dependent children

Three Streams Explained

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

For workers who have held a 482 (TSS), 457, or certain other temporary work visas and worked for the same employer for at least 2–3 years. Age limit is 45 unless an exemption applies.

Direct Entry (DE) Stream

For skilled workers overseas (or some in Australia) who have not worked in Australia under a 482. Requires a skills assessment, 3 years of relevant overseas experience, and an employer nomination. Age limit 45.

Labour Agreement Stream

For workers covered by a negotiated labour agreement between their employer and the Australian Government. Specific industries and occupations only.

General Eligibility

✅ Nominated by an approved Australian employer
✅ Under 45 years old (exemptions apply for some occupations)
✅ Competent English (IELTS 6.0 per band or equivalent)
✅ At least 3 years of relevant work experience (DE stream)
✅ Skills assessment (DE stream — from relevant assessing authority)
✅ Good health and character
✅ Position must meet market salary rate

Application Process

Employer Nominates You

Your employer (as an approved standard business sponsor) lodges a nomination for your position. The role must be on the relevant occupation list and meet salary requirements.

Skills Assessment (DE Stream)

If applying via the Direct Entry stream, obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

Lodge Visa Application

Submit your 186 visa application with all supporting documents simultaneously (or after) employer nomination.

Health & Police Checks

Complete medical examination and police clearances for all applicants.

Permanent Residency Granted

Upon approval, you and your family receive permanent residency immediately.

Processing Time & Cost

Processing Time

TRT stream: 4–8 months
DE stream: 6–14 months

Visa Fee (2024–25)

Primary: AUD $4,640
Additional adult: AUD $2,320
Child: AUD $1,160

Employer Costs

Nomination fee: AUD $540
Skilling Australians Fund levy applies

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to work for my employer before applying for a 186?

Under the TRT stream, you generally need to have worked for the same employer for at least 2 years on a 482 visa (previously 3 years under old TSS rules). The same employer must nominate you for the 186.

Can I change employers after getting my 186 PR?

Yes. Unlike temporary visas, once you hold the 186 permanent visa, you are free to work for any employer in any occupation anywhere in Australia. There is no obligation to remain with your sponsoring employer after the visa is granted.

Is there an age limit for the 186 visa?

Yes, generally 45 years. However, exemptions apply for academics, researchers, scientists, and several other occupations. Some high-earning specialists may also be exempt. Our agents can advise if an exemption applies in your case.

What if my occupation is not on the occupation list?

The Direct Entry stream requires your occupation to be on the approved occupation list. The TRT stream has more flexibility — if you were previously sponsored in an occupation, it generally carries over. Some employers may also be eligible for a Labour Agreement if their occupation isn’t on standard lists.

Can small businesses sponsor someone for a 186 visa?

Yes. Any Australian business (including small businesses) can sponsor employees for a 186 visa, provided the business is actively operating, has a genuine need for the position, and can pay the market salary rate. The business must become an approved Standard Business Sponsor first.

What English level is required for the 186 visa?

You need Competent English — IELTS 6.0 in each of the four bands (or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL, OET, or CAE). Some exemptions apply if your passport is from UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland, or if you studied for 5 years in English.

Ready for Permanent Residency Through Your Employer?

Whether you’re a 482 holder ready for PR or seeking an employer sponsor from overseas, we handle the entire 186 application process.

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Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186 – Permanent Residency Australia