Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. This visa allows skilled professionals to live, work, and study in Australia permanently. It is available through three streams:
- Direct Entry Stream – For workers who have skills and experience in an eligible occupation.
- Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream – For those who have worked in Australia on a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) for at least two to four years with the same employer.
- Labour Agreement Stream – For workers sponsored through a labour agreement between an employer and the Australian government.
With the Subclass 186 visa, you can:
- Live and work permanently in Australia.
- Bring eligible family members to Australia.
- Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system).
- Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible).
Who is eligible for the Subclass 186 visa?
To be eligible, you must:
Be nominated by an Australian employer.
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
Meet English language requirements.
Have at least three years of work experience in your occupation.
Meet health and character requirements.
Be nominated by an Australian employer.
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
Meet English language requirements.
Have at least three years of work experience in your occupation.
Meet health and character requirements.
Do I need a skills assessment for the 186 visa?
A skills assessment is generally required for the Direct Entry Stream but not for the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream.
Can I include family members in my 186 visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children, and they will receive the same permanent residency rights.
How long does the 186 visa take to process?
Processing times vary:
Direct Entry Stream: 6 to 12 months
TRT Stream: 6 to 10 months
Labour Agreement Stream: Varies based on individual cases
Direct Entry Stream: 6 to 12 months
TRT Stream: 6 to 10 months
Labour Agreement Stream: Varies based on individual cases
Can I change employers after receiving a 186 visa?
Yes, once the 186 visa is granted, you are not obligated to stay with your employer, but leaving too soon may raise concerns about the validity of your nomination.
What happens if my employer withdraws their nomination?
If your employer withdraws their nomination before your visa is granted, your application may be refused unless another employer nominates you.
What is the difference between the 186 visa and the 482 visa?
482 visa (TSS) is a temporary work visa that allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 4 years.
186 visa is a permanent visa that grants indefinite stay in Australia.
186 visa is a permanent visa that grants indefinite stay in Australia.
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