Subclass 186 Visa •

Subclass 186 Visa •

Woman handing passports and tickets to couple

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. It offers a long-term pathway to live and work in Australia and is ideal for both new migrants and current TSS 482 visa holders.

There are two main streams under the Subclass 186 visa.

1.
Direct Entry Stream

For skilled professionals who:

  • Have not worked in Australia before, or

  • Do not meet the TRT stream requirements

    • Nominated by an approved Australian employer

    • Valid skills assessment in your nominated occupation

    • Under 45 years of age

    • At least competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)

    • Minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience

    1. Employer submits a nomination

    2. You lodge your visa application

    3. Provide skills assessment, health and character checks

    4. Once approved – you’re granted permanent residency

2.
Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

For TSS 482 visa holders who have:

  • Worked for their sponsoring employer for at least 3 years in the same occupation

    • Nominated by the same sponsoring employer

    • Minimum 3 years' work in the nominated role

    • Occupation must still be on the skilled list

    • Under 45 years of age

    • Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)

    • No skills assessment required

    1. Employer submits a nomination

    2. Apply for the Subclass 186 visa under TRT stream

    3. Complete health and character checks

    4. Once approved – you're granted permanent residency

⚖️ Key Differences – Direct Entry vs TRT

Criteria

  1. Skills Assessment

  2. Australian Work Experience

  3. PR Pathway

  4. Age Limit

  5. English Requirement

Direct Entry Stream

  • Required

  • Not required

  • Immediate upon visa grant

  • Under 45 years old

  • Competent English

TRT Stream (via TSS 482)

  • Not required

  • 3 years under TSS 482

  • After 3 years on TSS

  • Under 45 years old

  • Competent English

⏳ How Long Can You Work?

Once granted, both streams offer permanent work rights in Australia:

  • Direct Entry: Immediate permanent residency and indefinite work rights

  • TRT Stream: Temporary work under the TSS 482 visa (2–4 years), followed by permanent residency once the 186 visa is granted

You may change employers after becoming a permanent resident, though initial sponsorship obligations may apply.

🌟 Why Choose the Subclass 186 Visa?

  • Secure your permanent residency

  • Access Medicare and public healthcare

  • Live and work anywhere in Australia

  • Pathway to Australian citizenship

  • Ideal for both skilled workers and employers seeking long-term solutions

Whether you're starting fresh or transitioning from a TSS 482 visa, the Subclass 186 is a reliable pathway to a permanent future in Australia.

Get in touch today to find out how we can support your visa journey.

📩 Ready to Apply?