Subclass 186 — Employer Nomination Scheme

The 186 ENS is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. It allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.

Three streams

• Direct Entry stream — for workers nominated directly from overseas or from a non-482 visa
• Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream — for workers transitioning from a 482 visa
• Labour Agreement stream — for workers sponsored under a labour agreement

Direct Entry stream

• Have an occupation on the MLTSSL, ROL, or CSOL
• Have a positive skills assessment
• Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience
• Be under 45 years old (with exceptions)
• Have Competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band)
• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream

• Have held a 482 visa for at least 2 years (Specialist Skills) or 3 years (Core Skills)
• Worked in the nominated occupation for the nominating employer for that period
• Be under 45 years old
• Have Competent English

• Be an approved Standard Business Sponsor
• Lodge a nomination application for the position
• Pay the SAF levy
• Demonstrate genuine need and ability to employ
• Meet training requirements (Australian workforce development)

Stage 1: Skills Assessment (Direct Entry only)

Apply for skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority.

Stage 2: Employer Nomination

Employer lodges nomination application for the position.

Stage 3: Visa Application

Lodge your visa application with all supporting documents.

Stage 4: Decision and Grant

If approved, you are granted permanent residence.

Primary applicant: approximately AUD 4,015 (1 July 2026 update). Additional charges for adult and child dependants.

Employer pays: SAF levy + nomination fee.

Typical processing time is 6–12 months from application, but can vary by case complexity.

Can I apply for 186 from outside Australia?
Yes, the Direct Entry stream allows overseas applications.

Do I need to hold a 482 first?
Not for Direct Entry. For TRT, yes, you need at least 2 years on a 482.

What is the age limit?
Under 45 (with limited exceptions).

Can I switch employers after getting 186?
Yes, 186 is permanent residence. You're free to work anywhere.

• Free 30-minute eligibility assessment
• Employer sponsorship coordination
• Skills assessment coordination
• Nomination application preparation
• Visa application lodgement
• Ongoing case management