Employer Nominated Scheme Subclass 186 Visa
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The Subclass 186 Visa (Employer Nominated Scheme or ENS) is a permanent residency visa offered to skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian employer.  

Some of the common difficulties experienced by many applicants include lack of knowledge on eligibility, complicated employer nomination process, hardcopy documents and fear of being refused the visa because of trivial mistakes. Such difficulties usually result in time wastage, stress, and lack of permanent residency opportunities. 

Subclass 186 visa tries to solve these issues by providing a systematized, employer-sponsored scheme of gaining permanent residence, as long as all the requirements are met correctly. Provided that the eligibility criteria are checked, that the employer is willing to nominate the skilled professionals, and that the documentation is properly prepared, the skilled professionals could get long-term employment, family stability, and permanent residency in Australia with this visa. 

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Purpose of the subclass 186: Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

The purpose of the Subclass 186-ENS visa is to enable an Australian employer to nominate an overseas employee in response to a genuine skill shortage within their business. This visa allows Australian employers to keep skilled talent for the long term while ensuring that eligible workers have strong assurance for permanent residence with an opportunity to live and work in Australia. 

The subclass 186 ENS visa promotes workforce stability and strengthens the key industries of the country with the advantage of permanent employment, access to social living, and potential Australian citizenship in the future for the skilled professional and their family. 

Streams of Subclass 186 Visa

The Subclass 186 Visa has three main streams:  

Key Differences Between Streams 

1. Subclass 186 Direct Entry

This is for people with skills who are sponsored by their Australian employer but lack work experience in Australia. This is the best stream for foreign professionals who would like to gain permanent residency in Australia without having to obtain it through a temporary residency visa. 

  • Employer Nomination: Your employer must nominate you for a skills position. 
  • Occupation: Your chosen occupation must be on the relevant occupation list for the DE stream. 
  • Skills Assessment: You need to be able to provide a positive skills assessment by the relevant authority for your occupation. This is evidence that you meet the standards in Australia. 
  • Work Experience: You must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience in your occupation (which could be outside Australia). 
  • Age Limit: All applicants should be below the age of 45 at the time of application. 
  • English Proficiency Requirement: You need to be proficient in the English language (often through tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOE 
  • Health and Character Checks: Mandatory medical tests and police clearance certificates are required. 

This would take about 12 – 18 months, which is longer than that of the TRT stream since there is additional assessment involved.

Overseas or Australia-based qualified individuals with temporary visas who would like to migrate to Australia for permanent residency through this direct pathway.

Eligible occupations for 186 direct entry stream (with ANZSCO Code)

For the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) – Direct Entry stream, the nominated occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).  

Here are commonly nominated eligible occupations with their ANZSCO codes: 

  • Accountant (General) – ANZSCO 221111 
  • External Auditor – ANZSCO 221213 
  • Management Consultant – ANZSCO 224711 
  • Civil Engineer – ANZSCO 233211 
  • Mechanical Engineer – ANZSCO 233512 
  • Electrical Engineer – ANZSCO 233311 
  • Software Engineer – ANZSCO 261313 
  • Developer Programmer – ANZSCO 261312 
  • ICT Business Analyst – ANZSCO 261111 
  • ICT Systems Analyst – ANZSCO 261112 
  • Registered Nurse (Medical / Surgical) – ANZSCO 254418 
  • Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency) – ANZSCO 254415 
  • Medical Practitioner (General) – ANZSCO 253111 
  • University Lecturer – ANZSCO 242111 
  • Secondary School Teacher – ANZSCO 241411 
  • Early Childhood Teacher – ANZSCO 241111 
  • Construction Project Manager – ANZSCO 133111 
  • Engineering Manager – ANZSCO 133211 
  • Chef – ANZSCO 351311 
  • Motor Mechanic (General) – ANZSCO 321211 
  • Electrician (General) – ANZSCO 341111 
  • Carpenter – ANZSCO 331212 
  • Metal Fabricator – ANZSCO 322311 

2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

This is for applicants who are currently in Australia with a temporary work visa, such as Subclass 457 or Subclass 482 (TSS). This stream is intended for applicants who want to transition from a temporary to a permanent residence in Australia with their current employer.

  • Temporary Work Experience: You must have worked for your sponsoring employer on a Subclass 457 or Subclass 482 visa for at least 3 years. 
  • Employer Nomination: You should be nominated by your employer for a permanent position that is of a full-time nature. 
  • Occupation: Your occupation must appear on the relevant occupation list for the TRT stream. 
  • Age Limit: Usually not more than 45 years old at the time of applying. 
  • English Proficiency: This is a requirement for one to qualify. 
  • Health and Character Checks: Mandatory for visa application purposes. 

Usually 4 – 8 months, quicker than the Direct Entry Stream since you would already have confirmed work experience in Australia.

Temporary Visa applicants who have worked with their employer for a few years and would like to gain permanent residency without requiring a new skills assessment.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream applies to applicants nominated under a formal labor agreement between an Australian employer and the Australian government. Labour agreements are generally negotiated to enable an employer to recruit skilled workers for an occupation that is not on standard skilled occupation lists. 

  • Labour Agreement: An employer should be under a valid labour agreement approved by the Australian government. 
  • Occupation: The occupation cannot be found on the standard skilled occupation lists but is permitted specifically by the labour agreement. 
  • Employer Nomination: The employer needs to provide the details of the job being offered, including the position, salary, and terms of the job. 
  • Relevant Qualifications/Work Experience and Skills: Requirements vary depending on but usually include relevant qualifications and experience. 
  • Age Limit: Normally below 45 years, unless stated otherwise in the employment contract. 
  • English Proficiency: Competent English is required, unless dispensations are given. 
  • Health and character checks: All applicants must undertake this. 

Varies by agreement and occupation; usually longer than TRT but sometimes shorter than DE, depending on documentation and labor agreement conditions.

Applicants whose occupations are in demand by labour agreements and are not on the standard lists, or those who have sponsorship through employers in specialized industries. 

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

  • Must have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list 
  • Must have the required skills, qualifications, and work experience for the nominated occupation 
  • Must meet English language proficiency requirements (unless exempt) 
  • Must satisfy health and character requirements 
  • Must be under the applicable age limit at the time of application (age exemptions may apply in certain cases) 
  • Must meet licensing, registration, or professional membership requirements (if applicable) 
  • Must demonstrate a genuine intention to work in the nominated position 
  • Must meet stream-specific requirements (e.g., Direct Entry, TRT, or Labour Agreement) 

Eligibility Criteria for Nominating Employers

  • Must be a lawfully operating and actively trading business in Australia 
  • Must have a genuine need for the nominated position within the business 
  • Must offer a full-time, ongoing position (usually at least 2 years) 
  • Must nominate an occupation that matches the business activities 
  • Must meet salary and employment conditions in line with market rates 
  • Must comply with Australian workplace and employment laws 
  • Must have no adverse information against the business or its directors 
  • Must meet sponsorship or labour agreement obligations (if applicable) 

Health and Character Requirements

The applicants are required to undergo health checks by panel doctors approved by the Australian Government to ensure that they are compatible with the standards of public health and safety in Australia. This is a process that checks the applicants’ medical history. Health checks include a check of the applicants’ medical history, as well as a check that may involve a chest or blood test. 

Police clearance certificates from every country where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years since reaching 16 years of age must be submitted. This is to ensure that the applicant is of good character and does not pose any risk to the Australian community. 

What are the Subclass 186 Requirements?

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa has specific eligibility criteria that vary depending on the visa stream. Applicants must meet general requirements applicable to all streams and additional criteria specific to the Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition (TRT), or Labour Agreement streams.  

  • Nomination by an Approved Employer: The applicant must be nominated by an Australian employer who is approved to sponsor skilled workers. This ensures the employer meets regulatory standards and the role is genuine. 
  • Age Limit: Applicants generally must be under 45 years of age at the time of application, though exemptions exist for some occupations. 
  • Skills and Qualifications: The applicant must have the required skills, qualifications, and work experience relevant to the nominated occupation. 
  • English Language Proficiency: Adequate English skills are required, either through tests or exemptions. 
  • Health and Character Checks: All applicants and included family members must meet Australian health and character requirements. 
  • Skills Assessment: Applicants must have a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation. 
  • Work Experience: A minimum of three years of relevant work experience may be required, depending on the occupation. 
  • Overseas or Short-term Australian Work Experience: This stream is for applicants who have not worked extensively in Australia and are applying directly from overseas or on a temporary visa. 
  • Nomination by Employer: Must be supported by a nomination from an approved employer in Australia. 
  • Temporary Work Visa Holders: Applicants must hold a Subclass 457 or 482 visa with the nominating employer for at least three years. 
  • Same Employer Requirement: The applicant must be nominated by the same employer who sponsored them on their temporary visa. 
  • Occupation Eligibility: The occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). 
  • English Language: English proficiency requirements may be simplified for this stream if already met during the temporary visa period. 
  • Employer – Specific Agreement: The applicant must be nominated under a labour agreement between the employer and the Australian government. 
  • Occupation Not on Standard List: This stream is for roles that are not included on the standard skilled occupation lists. 
  • Skills and Experience: Applicants must have the skills and experience required by the labour agreement. 
  • Compliance with Agreement Terms: Both employer and applicant must meet all conditions set out in the labour agreement. 

Key Benefits of Subclass 186 Visa

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa offers several long-term advantages for skilled workers and their families who wish to settle permanently in Australia. 

 Some of the advantages of subclass 186 visa are:  

The Subclass 186 visa provides permanent residency to the primary applicant and the family members included in the application, thus permitting them to stay in Australia indefinitely without renewing temporary visas. 

Once the visa is granted, holders are free to live, work, or study in any location across Australia. Once permanent residency has been obtained, there are no regional or employer restrictions. 

In addition, visa holders are entitled to Medicare, which covers some of the expenses in hospitals and medical services in Australia. They may be entitled to limited government benefits when a certain length of residency or eligibility criterion is reached. 

 Subclass 186 visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship after they have met residency and character conditions. Citizenship may confer additional rights, including the right to vote and to hold an Australian passport. 

Eligible family members, including a partner and dependent children, can be included in the visa application. It allows families to live together in Australia, enabling them to work, study, and access healthcare.

Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step process to get subclass 186 employer-nominated scheme visa: 

Step 1: Employer Nomination

Step-by-Step Process for Employer Nomination (For a Nominating Employer): 

The nominating employer must be an approved sponsor or satisfy the requirements determined by the Department of Home Affairs for a skilled worker. This will help to ensure the business is working under labor laws and any other fair practices. 

The nominated occupation should appear on the relevant skilled occupation list and align with the applicant’s qualification. A fit between the worker’s skills and industry demand in Australia is ensured. 

Employers must be able to show a case that they have advertised the position in the local market and, therefore, have tried to recruit for the occupation locally. This shows evidence of the position not being easily filled by an Australian employee. 

The employer submits the nomination online with all supporting documents, like business registration and job description. This formally requests the Department of Home Affairs to approve the position.

Step 2: Visa Application

Visa Application Process (For Applicant): 

Candidates need to collect skill evaluation results, qualifications, work experience, and English language proficiency. Other necessary documents include health and character certifications for visa requirements.

The visa application is lodged online by the applicant with the approved nomination and supporting documents. This is a formal request to the Department of Home Affairs for a grant of permanent residency.  

It is also necessary to obtain medical examinations and police clearance certificates in order to confirm that the applicant meets the set health and character standards in Australia. These checks come into play to prove vital for visa endorsement.

The visa application is processed, and the time it takes to process depends on each stream, whether Direct Entry, TRT, or Labour Agreement. Applicants can track online for progress updates. 

Upon approval, the applicant and eligible family members receive permanent residency, which allows them to live, work, or access social benefits anywhere in Australia.

186 Visa Checklist

Submitting complete and accurate documentation is essential for a successful Subclass 186 Employer Sponsored Visa application. The documents help demonstrate your identity, training purpose, sponsorship, and overall eligibility. 

  • Valid passport (bio-data page and all used pages) 
  • Birth certificate or national identity card 
  • Recent passport-sized photographs 
  • Name change documents (if applicable) 
  • Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority (if required) 
  • Educational qualifications and academic transcripts 
  • Employment reference letters detailing roles, duties, and duration 
  • Payslips, tax records, or employment contracts as proof of work experience 
  • Professional registrations or licenses (if applicable) 
  • Approved nomination application and nomination approval notice 
  • Employment contract or offer letter outlining role, salary, and conditions 
  • Evidence of the business’s lawful operation and active trading status 
  • Organisational chart showing the nominee’s position within the business 
  • Market salary evidence demonstrating compliance with Australian wage standards 

Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme Visa Costs

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa has several costs that applicants should plan for. Below are the key government-set fees as of mid-2025 (subject to annual updates by the Department of Home Affairs): 

  • Primary applicant: AUD 4,910 (base visa application charge)  
  • Additional applicant (aged 18 or over): AUD 2,455 each  
  • Dependent child (under 18 years): AUD 1,230 each  
  • Primary applicant: AUD 9,800 (additional fee, paid only if required)  
  • Secondary applicant 18+ (without functional English): AUD 4,890 (if applicable)  
  • Nomination application fee: AUD 540  
  • Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy: AUD 3,000 if business turnover is less than AUD 10 million; AUD 5,000 if business turnover is AUD 10 million or more  
  • Skills assessment fees (for Direct Entry stream if required) 
  • English language testing fees 
  • Medical examinations 
  • Police clearance certificates/character checks 
  • Translation and notarisation of documents 
  • Migration agent/professional service fees 

Why Is the Subclass 186 Visa the Best Option to Settle in Australia?

The Subclass 186 visa offers a path to PR directly, thus long-term security and stability for skilled workers along with their families. Visa holders have full work rights, access to Medicare, the ability to sponsor eligible family members, and a clear pathway to Australian citizenship; hence, it is one of the most reliable and attractive employer-sponsored permanent visa options.

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What Happens After the 186 Visa Is Granted?

After being granted a Subclass 186 visa, visa-holders are allowed to remain in Australia to study and work for an indefinite period of time and in any part of the country that they choose to relocate to. The visa-holders will also need to work for the nominating employer in the nominated occupation for a reasonable time and gain access to many Australian benefits like Medicare and public schools for their children and begin their residency towards Australian citizenship. 

Why Choose Us for Your Subclass 186 ENS Visa?

Applying for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa can be complex, with strict eligibility criteria, detailed documentation, and employer compliance requirements. Choosing the right migration partner significantly improves your chances of success.

Here’s why you need to choose BJay Education and Visa Services for your subclass 186 ENS visa:  

Our team will do a complete evaluation of both the visa applicant and the employer to make sure that all requirements for a Subclass 186 visa application have been considered before making an application. 

Our team has experience in all ENS streams, including the Direct Entry Stream, Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream and Labour Agreement Stream. This will provide you with accurate advice relevant to your visa route. 

We help employers with nomination requirements, labor market requirements, and genuine position requirements to make sure that the employer’s nomination is in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Home Affairs.  

We work on all supporting documents, such as skills evaluation, work experience, and English proficiency, to make a strong application.  

You will get updates on your application status, timelines, and information on all developments during your Subclass 186 visa application process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can family members be included?

Yes, partner and dependent children can be included in the application. 

Is subclass 186 a permanent visa?

Yes, the Subclass 186 visa is a permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia indefinitely. 

Is English proficiency mandatory?

Yes, applicants must demonstrate English language skills, though exemptions may apply in certain cases. 

Can I switch employers after getting the visa?

Yes, once granted, the visa allows permanent residency and employment flexibility. 

Does this visa lead to citizenship?

Yes, permanent residents can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements. 

Can I change employers after obtaining the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visa in Australia?

Yes, once the 186 visa is granted, you are a permanent resident and can work for any employer in Australia. While you are encouraged to initially work in the nominated role, there are no legal restrictions preventing you from changing employers after the visa is granted. 

Does a 186 visa expire?

No, the Subclass 186 visa is a permanent residency visa. It does not have an expiry date for living, working, or studying in Australia.