Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme Visa
A Pathway to Permanent Residency for Sponsored Skilled Workers
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186 is a permanent resident visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. It allows skilled professionals to live and work in Australia permanently, either by transitioning from a temporary work visa or applying directly from overseas or within Australia.
What You Can Do with a Subclass 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme)
The Subclass 186 Visa (Employer Nomination Scheme) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. It allows you and your family to live and work in Australia permanently, access public healthcare, sponsor relatives, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship.
Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia as permanent residents
This visa grants you and your eligible family members permanent residency, giving you the freedom to settle, work, and study anywhere in the country without restrictions.
Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public health care scheme
As a permanent resident, you’ll have access to Medicare, which covers a wide range of medical services including hospital treatment, GP visits, and subsidised prescriptions.
Sponsor relatives to come to Australia
You can sponsor eligible family members to join you in Australia through various family visa options, helping them gain temporary or permanent residency.
Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Once you meet the residency and other eligibility requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship and enjoy full civic rights including voting and applying for an Australian passport.
Travel freely to and from Australia for five years
The visa includes a five-year travel facility, allowing you to enter and leave Australia freely. After that, you may apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) or citizenship to maintain international travel rights.
Apply for Australian citizenship, if you meet the eligibility criteria
After meeting residency requirements (typically four years, with at least one as a permanent resident), you can apply for citizenship. This gives you voting rights, an Australian passport, and full civic privileges.
Streams Under the 186 Visa
The Subclass 186 visa is available under three streams, depending on your situation:
| Stream | Who It’s For | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) | Skilled workers already in Australia on a 482 or 457 visa | Must have worked for your nominating employer for at least 2–3 years (depending on your visa) |
| Direct Entry | Skilled workers applying from overseas or within Australia who haven’t worked for the employer on a temporary visa | Must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience and a skills assessment |
| Labour Agreement | Workers sponsored under a formal agreement between an employer and the Australian government | Must meet the terms of the approved labour agreement |
You must also receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs and must not have a previously cancelled visa or refused application that bars you from applying.
Steps to Studying in Australia
Follow these essential steps to begin your journey toward studying in Australia, from initial preparations to receiving an invitation to apply for your student visa:
Employer Lodges Nomination
Your Australian employer submits a nomination application to sponsor you for a permanent skilled position under the Employer Nomination Scheme.
Submit Your Visa Application
After the nomination is lodged, you apply for the Subclass 186 visa, providing all necessary documents including proof of skills, qualifications, English proficiency, and health and character requirements.
Department Assesses the Applications
The Department of Home Affairs reviews both the employer nomination and your visa application to ensure all criteria are met, including genuine need for the position and your suitability.
Visa Approval and Grant of Permanent Residency
Once approved, you and your eligible family members are granted permanent residency in Australia, with full rights to live, work, and access public services.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Subclass 186 Visa Fees
| Applicant Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | $4,640 |
| Secondary applicant (18+) | $2,320 |
| Secondary applicant (under 18) | $1,160 |
Additional charges may apply for second instalments, especially for applicants with limited English ability.
Who Can Apply for a 186 Visa?
You may be eligible if you:
Have been nominated by an approved Australian employer
Are under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
Have competent English (IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent)
Have relevant skills, qualifications, and work experience
Pass health and character checks
Hold (if applicable) a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation
Note: Age and skills assessment exemptions may apply for some applicants under the TRT or Labour Agreement stream.
Including Family in Your Application
The 186 visa allows you to include:
Your spouse or de facto partner
Dependent children or stepchildren
All family members included must meet health and character requirements, and they will enjoy full permanent residency benefits once the visa is granted.
Employer and Nomination Requirements
For the visa to be approved, your employer must:
Be a lawfully operating business in Australia
Offer a genuine full-time position on the relevant skilled occupation list
Pay market salary rates
Nominate the position through the Department of Home Affairs, and receive approval before the visa application is submitted
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the 186 visa without a skills assessment?
Yes, if you’re applying under the Temporary Residence Transition stream and were already working for your employer on a 457 or 482 visa.
Is there a pathway to citizenship through the 186 visa?
Yes. After holding the visa and living in Australia for four years, with at least one year as a PR, you may apply for Australian citizenship if other conditions are met.
Can I change employers during the process?
Changing employers after the nomination is approved may affect your visa eligibility. It’s best to seek advice before doing so.
Is the 186 visa only for people on a 482 visa?
No. You can apply through the Direct Entry stream without holding a temporary visa, provided you meet the criteria.
Ready to Make Australia Your Permanent Home?
While we have a wealth of information on our site about various visa options and FAQs that address most common questions, sometimes you may need personalized guidance or a step-by-step walkthrough.
If you’re unsure where to start or need tailored advice, schedule a consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents.
Simply follow the link below to choose an agent and book your consultation.
