Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
A permanent visa for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. This visa allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.
About the Subclass 186 Visa
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an approved Australian employer. This visa provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for those with skills in demand by Australian businesses.
Key Benefits
- Permanent residence in Australia
- Work and study in Australia indefinitely
- Access to Medicare (Australia's public healthcare system)
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Travel to and from Australia for 5 years
Visa Streams
The Subclass 186 visa has three streams:
Temporary Residence Transition Stream
For workers who have been working for their nominating employer for at least three years on a TSS visa (subclass 482) or a previous 457 visa.
Direct Entry Stream
For workers who have not worked for their nominating employer, or have worked for them on a different visa or for less than three years.
Agreement Stream
For workers sponsored through a labour agreement between the employer and the Australian Government.
Basic Requirements
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer
- Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
- Have skills and qualifications for the nominated occupation
- Meet English language requirements (competent English)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have relevant work experience (varies by stream)
- Skills assessment (required for Direct Entry stream)
Application Process
Employer Nomination
Your employer submits a nomination application
Visa Application
Lodge your visa application within 6 months of nomination
Assessment
Application is assessed against health, character, and skills criteria
Decision
Receive visa decision and permanent residence grant
Important Information
- Processing times vary depending on the stream and individual circumstances
- Your employer must be approved as a Standard Business Sponsor
- The nominated occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Age exemptions may apply in certain circumstances
Ready to Apply?
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