The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa is a permanent employer-sponsored visa that allows Australian employers to nominate highly skilled professionals for permanent residency. It provides a secure pathway for overseas workers to settle in Australia while contributing their expertise to the Australian workforce.

2-Stage Application Process

Nomination

The employer lodges a nomination specifying the position and identifying the nominee

Visa Application

The applicant applies for the Subclass 186 visa under the relevant stream

Key Highlights

  • Apply from inside or outside Australia
  • Live, study, and work permanently in Australia
  • Three streams available: Temporary Residence Transition (TRT), Direct Entry, and Labour Agreement
  • Permanent residency with indefinite stay
  • Expected to work for your nominating employer for at least 2 years after visa grant

Eligibility Requirements

Common Criteria (All Streams)

  • Employer must lodge an approved nomination
  • If required by State or Territory laws, you must hold (or be eligible to hold) the necessary licence, registration, or membership
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Satisfy Public Interest and Special Return criteria
  • Fulfil stream-specific Nomination and Visa criteria

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

  • Be under 45 years of age (exemptions may apply)
  • Demonstrate Competent English (exemptions may apply)
  • Nomination approved by the Minister under the TRT stream
  • May be required to show evidence of skills and experience in the nominated occupation

Direct Entry Stream

  • Be under 45 years of age (exemptions may apply)
  • Demonstrate Competent English (exemptions may apply)
  • Nomination approved by the Minister under the Direct Entry stream
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation (unless exempt)
  • At least 3 years of relevant work experience (unless exempt)

Labour Agreement Stream

  • Be under 45 years of age, unless otherwise agreed in the labour agreement
  • Nomination approved by the Minister under the Labour Agreement stream
  • Possess appropriate qualifications, skills, experience, and English proficiency for the role
  • At least 3 years of relevant employment in the nominated occupation (unless otherwise agreed with the Minister)
Important Notice: This content is general in nature and does not replace professional immigration advice. Visa rules and requirements change frequently. Contact Starks Immigration Services for tailored assistance.

Why Choose Starks Immigration Services?

At Starks Immigration Services, we assist both employers and skilled professionals with the Subclass 482 visa process. From sponsorship approval to final visa grant, our team ensures every requirement is carefully addressed, making the process smoother and faster.

01

Expert Guidance

At Starks Immigration Services, we work with both employers and skilled workers to ensure Subclass 186 visa applications are successful. From employer nomination approval to the final visa application, our experienced migration team helps you navigate every step with confidence.

02

Trusted Immigration

Australian immigration laws and policies change frequently. At Starks, we stay on top of the latest updates to provide you with accurate and timely advice. Our trusted guidance ensures your application is aligned with current regulations, improving your chances of a successful outcome.

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Take the next step toward permanent residency with employer sponsorship.

Processing times vary, but it typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the stream and application completeness.

Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application.

A positive skills assessment is required for the Direct Entry stream, unless you are exempt. It may not be required under the TRT or Labour Agreement streams.

You are expected to work for your nominating employer for at least 2 years. Changing employers before this period may affect your visa conditions.

Yes. The Subclass 186 visa grants permanent residency, which is a pathway to Australian citizenship once you meet residency and eligibility criteria.

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