Subclass 186 Visa: Employer Nomination Scheme
Permanent residence through an Australian employer, either after time on a 482 or directly.
Reviewed by Muskaan Ahuja, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2418455) · Last reviewed
In short: The Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) is a permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. Most applicants use the Temporary Residence Transition stream after working for their sponsor on a 482, or the Direct Entry stream with a skills assessment and at least three years of experience.
Who this visa suits
- 482 holders who have worked for their sponsor for the required time
- Experienced workers with a permanent job offer
- Employers keeping key staff long term
| Temporary Residence Transition | After the required time with your sponsor on a 482 (generally two years) |
|---|---|
| Direct Entry | Skills assessment and at least three years of relevant experience |
| Labour Agreement | Under an employer’s labour agreement |
| Age | Under 45, with some exemptions |
| English | Competent English, unless exempt |
Official information: Employer Nomination Scheme visa (186). Part of our Employer sponsored services.
Requirements
The main requirements. We check each one against your situation before you apply.
Employer nomination
A genuine, ongoing full-time position.
Salary
At least the threshold and the market rate.
Under 45
Exemptions apply for some applicants.
Competent English
Unless exempt.
Skills
TRT: time with sponsor; Direct Entry: skills assessment and 3 years.
Health & character
For all applicants.
Document checklist
Most applications need the following. Your exact list depends on your circumstances; we give you a personalised checklist.
- Employer nomination and position details
- Employment contract and payslips
- Evidence of time with your sponsor (TRT)
- Skills assessment and experience references (Direct Entry)
- English test results
- Police certificates and health examinations
Costs
| Visa | Main applicant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186) | AUD 6,000–6,500* | Main applicant. The employer also pays nomination fees and the SAF levy. |
*Indicative range only. Government visa charges change often (usually each 1 July) and depend on your circumstances and family members. Your total cost may also include our professional service fee and other costs such as health checks, police certificates, skills assessments and translations. Terms and conditions apply. Confirm the current amount for your family in the official Visa Pricing Estimator, or ask us for a fixed written quote before any work starts.
Step by step
- Choose the streamTRT, Direct Entry or Labour Agreement.
- Employer nominationWith salary and position evidence.
- Visa applicationYou and your family apply.
- ChecksHealth, character and any requests.
- GrantPermanent residence.
- Plan citizenshipOnce you meet the residence requirement.
Common mistakes and refusal reasons
- Not enough time with the sponsor for TRT
- Salary below the threshold at nomination
- Turning 45 without an exemption
- Skills assessment or experience not matching the role
Not eligible yet? Start with the 482, or consider the points-tested 189.
Recent changes
1 July 2026: Charge rose to AUD 6,000–6,500*.
Questions
Can’t see your question? Ask a registered migration agent in a free 15-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow long must I work for my sponsor before the 186?+
Can I apply if I’m over 45?+
Does my employer pay the visa charge?+
Can my family be included?+
Talk to us about your visa.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered migration agent (MARN 2418455).
- Registered migration agentMuskaan Ahuja, MARN 2418455
- Free 15-minute consultationBy phone, online or at our Hawthorn office
- Reply within 1 business dayCall, WhatsApp or the Free Profile Assessment
- Fixed-fee quote in writingBefore any work starts, no hidden charges