Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186 is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia indefinitely, provided they are nominated by an approved Australian employer. It is designed to help Australian businesses fill long-term skill shortages and offers a direct pathway to permanent residency for overseas professionals.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa

• Permanent Residency
  Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely.
• Access to Medicare
  Enrol in Australia’s public healthcare system.
• Pathway to Citizenship
  Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
• Sponsor Family Members
  Include your spouse and dependent children in your application.
• No Regional Restrictions
  Unlike regional visas, you can live and work in any part of Australia.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Subclass 186 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Employer Nomination

• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer for a full-time position.
• The position must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

General Requirements

• Be under 45 years of age (unless exempt).
• Have competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Hold relevant skills, qualifications, and work experience.

Visa Streams

There are three streams under the Subclass 186 visa:

1. Direct Entry Stream
   • For applicants outside Australia or those who haven’t worked for their nominating employer under a 457/482 visa.
   • Requires a positive skills assessment, three years of relevant experience, and competent English.
2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
   • For applicants who have held a 457 or 482 visa and worked for their employer for at least two years.
   • Must be nominated for the same occupation and employer.
3. Labour Agreement Stream
   • For applicants sponsored under a labour agreement between the employer and the Australian Government.
   • May allow concessions to age, English, or skills requirements.

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Subclass 186 visa comes with the following conditions:

• Permanent Residency
  You can live, work, and study in Australia without restrictions.
• Travel Facility.
  Travel freely for five years from the visa grant date. After that, apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV).
• Sponsor Obligations
  Your employer must offer a genuine full-time position and meet salary and training requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)