Subclass 186
Employer Nomination Scheme Visa - Permanent Residency Through Employer Sponsorship
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186 provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. This visa supports businesses experiencing labour shortages while enabling talented overseas professionals to live and work permanently in Australia.
With three unique streams, the 186 visa suits applicants with various work histories, including temporary visa holders and new applicants with skills in demand.
Key Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa
✅ Pathway to Australian permanent residency
✅ Ability to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia
✅ Sponsor family members for permanent visas
✅ Access to government health benefits and support services
✅ Long-term stability for skilled workers and families
Who Should Apply for the Subclass 186 Visa?
You may be eligible if you:
• Are nominated by an approved Australian employer
• Have the skills, qualifications, and English language proficiency for the nominated occupation
• Are under 45 years old (some exceptions apply)
• Meet health and character requirements
This visa is ideal for:
• Professionals on a TSS (Subclass 482) or 457 visa
• Skilled migrants looking to secure permanent residency
• Employers in need of long-term skilled staff
Streams Under the Subclass 186 Visa
1. Direct Entry Stream
For skilled workers who have never worked or only briefly worked in Australia. Requires a skills assessment and competent English.
2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
For applicants who already hold a 457, TSS (Subclass 482), or Bridging Visa and have worked for their employer for at least 2 of the last 3 years.
3. Labour Agreement Stream
For workers nominated by an employer under a formal labour agreement with the Australian Government.
Eligibility Criteria – Subclass 186
General eligibility includes:
✅ Employer nomination for an eligible occupation
✅ Positive skills assessment (Direct Entry stream)
✅ Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
✅ Meet age requirement (under 45)
✅ Satisfy health and character checks
⚠️ Some exemptions apply for high-salary earners, academic/research positions, and transitional visa holders.
Required Documents
To apply, prepare the following:
• Valid passport and identity documents
• Employer nomination approval (via ENS)
• Employment contract or offer
• English test results (IELTS, PTE, etc.)
• Skills assessment outcome (for Direct Entry)
• Medical checks and police clearances
Visa Conditions & Work Rights
| Stream | Visa Duration | Permanent Residency |
| Direct Entry | Permanent | Yes |
| Temporary Residence Transition | Permanent | Yes |
| Labour Agreement | Permanent | Yes |
This visa allows:
• Full work rights in Australia
• Inclusion of partner and dependent children
• Access to Medicare and other public services
Processing Time & Costs
| Stream | Processing Time | Visa Fee (AUD) |
| Direct Entry | 5 – 9 months | From AUD4,770.00 |
| Temporary Residence Transition | 4 – 8 months | From AUD4,770.00 |
| Labour Agreement | 7 – 12 months | From AUD4,770.00 |
Additional charges apply for secondary applicants and health assessments.
FAQs – Subclass 186 Visa
Can I apply for this visa from within Australia?
Yes, if you are on a valid visa and meet onshore eligibility requirements.
Does this visa allow family inclusion?
Yes. You can include your spouse and dependent children in your application.
What if my employer doesn’t have a labour agreement?
You may be eligible under Direct Entry or TRT, depending on your work history.
Do I need a skills assessment for the TRT stream?
No, unless required by the occupation or specified in the regulations.
Why Choose VisaAdvisor?
At VisaAdvisor, we simplify the employer nomination process and ensure your Subclass 186 visa is professionally managed from start to finish:
✅ Expert assistance with employer nomination and ENS compliance
✅ Step-by-step document and lodgement support
✅ Guidance through Direct Entry or TRT eligibility
✅ Representation during skills assessment or visa complications
✅ Support for family inclusion and permanent residency transition