The Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) Visa is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia. This visa is available to individuals who are nominated by an Australian employer to fill a position in the country. The Subclass 186 visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residency for workers in eligible occupations and ensures that Australian businesses can access a global talent pool.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme Visa and how to navigate the process:
 
Key Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the 186 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Nomination by an Australian Employer

   • The applicant must be nominated by an Australian employer who is an approved sponsor.

   • The employer must demonstrate that they have a genuine need for the role to be filled.
      

2. Skilled Occupation

   • The position must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), which includes occupations in high demand across various sectors.
      

3. Work Experience and Qualifications

   • Applicants need to prove they possess the necessary skills and qualifications for the occupation, typically requiring at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
      

4. Age Requirement

   • Applicants must be under the age of 45 when applying, unless exempted by certain conditions (e.g., holding specific skills in critical areas).
      

5. English Language Proficiency

   • Applicants must meet competent English requirements, typically proven by a score on an English language test.
      

6. Health and Character Checks

   • Health assessments and police clearances from all countries where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years are mandatory.
      

Streams Under Subclass 186 Visa

The 186 visa has three primary streams:
 

1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

   • Available to applicants who have worked for their employer on a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa for at least 3 years. The employer can then nominate them for permanent residency.
      

2. Direct Entry (DE) Stream

   • For applicants who have not worked with their employer for 3 years or those who are applying directly from overseas. This stream requires a skills assessment and proof of work experience.
      

3. Labour Agreement (LA) Stream

   • For applicants sponsored by an employer through a labour agreement between the employer and the Australian government. This stream is typically used for positions that do not appear on the standard occupation list.

 
Stages of the Subclass 186 Application Process

Step 1: Employer Nomination

• Employer Application: The first step is for your employer to submit a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs. The employer must demonstrate that they meet sponsorship requirements and that the role fits the criteria of the visa.

• Nomination Approval: Once the employer’s nomination is approved, the employee (you) will be invited to submit their visa application.
   

Step 2: Visa Application

• Submitting the Application: After the nomination is approved, the applicant must submit the visa application. The application should include documentation that proves eligibility, such as:

  • Skills assessments (if required)

  • Evidence of work experience and qualifications

  • Proof of English proficiency

  • Police clearances and medical exams

• Visa Processing: The Department of Home Affairs processes the application, and applicants may be requested to provide additional documents or attend interviews.
   

Step 3: Visa Grant

• Approval: If the visa is approved, the applicant will receive permanent residency status. As a permanent resident, applicants can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.

 
Advantages of Subclass 186 Visa
 

• Permanent Residency: The Subclass 186 visa is a pathway to permanent residency, giving holders access to full work rights, healthcare, and other benefits.

• Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their partner and dependent children in the application.

• Work and Live Anywhere: The visa allows permanent residency and the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.

• Pathway to Citizenship: After living in Australia for 4 years and holding the 186 visa for at least 1 year, holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I qualify for the Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme Visa?
To qualify, applicants must be nominated by an approved Australian employer, work in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, and meet age, English proficiency, work experience, and health requirements.

2. Can I apply for the Subclass 186 visa from outside Australia?
Yes, applicants can apply from outside Australia under the Direct Entry Stream, which allows overseas workers to be nominated for permanent residency.

3. What are the age and work experience requirements for the Subclass 186 visa?
Applicants must be under the age of 45 when applying, unless exempted. Additionally, applicants typically need at least 3 years of relevant work experience in their nominated occupation.

4. Can my family join me on the Subclass 186 visa?
Yes, applicants can include their partner and dependent children in the visa application.

5. How long does it take to get a Subclass 186 visa?
Processing times for the Subclass 186 visa can vary depending on the stream, but they typically range from several months to over a year. It’s important to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid delays.
 
Call to Action

The Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme visa offers an incredible opportunity for skilled workers to gain permanent residency in Australia, provided they meet the necessary criteria. Don’t wait to begin the process—take advantage of this pathway to secure your future in Australia today. Contact our expert team to guide you through the process and ensure your application is completed without delay. Start your journey now and join the thousands of skilled workers who have successfully made Australia their home!