Subclass 186 Visa: Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

Looking for a pathway to Australian permanent residency through your employer?
The Subclass 186 visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. It also includes your eligible family members.

We support two main streams of this visa – Temporary Residence Transition and Direct Entry.

Do You Qualify for a 186 Visa?

Take our free online visa assessment, and we’ll let you know if you’re eligible and which stream suits you best.

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

This stream is for workers who already hold a Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa.

You may be eligible if:

  • You’ve worked for the same employer for 2 years on a 482 visa

  • You’ve been in the same occupation during this time

  • You have Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent, unless exempt)

  • Your salary meets the TSMIT threshold: at least $76,515 + super for a 38-hour full-time week

  • You’re under 45 years of age at the time you apply

  • Your employer nominates you for the 186 visa

You can’t apply independently – your employer must support your nomination.

Direct Entry Stream

The Direct Entry stream is for skilled workers who may not have a 482 visa but have the right qualifications and experience. This includes people on:

  • Student visas

  • Working Holiday (417) or Work and Holiday (462) visas

  • Offshore (outside Australia) applicants

To qualify:

  • Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

  • You’re under 45 years old

  • You have Competent English

  • You meet the skills assessment and work experience requirements for your occupation

This stream gives you direct access to permanent residency without needing to wait on a 482 visa pathway.

Let’s Help You Get Started

Not sure which stream is right for you?
We’ll assess your circumstances and let you know the best option – completely free.

Skill Assessment for the 186 Visa (Direct Entry Stream)

If you’re applying for the 186 visa via the Direct Entry stream, you’ll need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation. (Some exemptions may apply.)

We’re here to help with the entire process:

  • We provide a detailed checklist of the documents you’ll need

  • We review and advise on your paperwork before submission

  • We lodge your skills assessment and manage all follow-up with the assessing authority on your behalf

Important to note:
Some applicants may receive a positive skills assessment but still not meet the full three years’ work experience requirement. This can vary depending on your occupation – a Registered Migration Agent can clarify your specific situation.

Employer Sponsorship for a 186 Visa

To apply for a 186 visa, you must be nominated by an approved Australian employer.

Your employer must:

  • Offer you a full-time position for at least two years from the time your visa is granted

  • Pay you at a market salary rate that meets minimum requirements

  • Show how your role is genuine and essential to the business

Our team doesn’t just support you – we guide your employer through the entire sponsorship process too, including:

  • Preparing and lodging the nomination application

  • Ensuring compliance with Department of Home Affairs requirements

  • Assisting with any required business documentation