The 186 Visa Australia, officially known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 Visa, is one of the most reliable pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. This 186 visa for Australia allows eligible overseas employees to live, work, and study in Australia permanently, while helping local businesses fill genuine skill shortages.

If you are wondering what is 186 visa in Australia, this guide explains everything you need to know—from eligibility requirements and the application process to visa duration, benefits, and employer obligations.

What Is a 186 Visa in Australia?

The Subclass 186 Visa is a permanent residence visa that requires nomination by an approved Australian employer. It allows skilled workers to continue employment in Australia under their sponsoring business in a full-time, ongoing role.

The visa involves two main steps:

• Employer Nomination – The business must nominate you for a genuine skilled position.
• Visa Application – You must apply for the visa within six months of nomination approval.

Applicants can apply inside or outside Australia. If applying from within Australia, you must hold a valid visa (such as a Subclass 482 TSS visa, 457 visa, or a Bridging Visa A, B, or C).
Understanding what is 186 visa in Australia helps ensure you meet the eligibility and documentation requirements before applying.

Streams Under the 186 Visa

There are three streams under the Subclass 186 Visa:

• Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
• Direct Entry Stream
• Labour Agreement Stream

Each stream has distinct eligibility conditions and applies to different employment situations.

186 Visa for Australia Requirements

For Employers

The nominating business must:

• Be actively and lawfully operating in Australia.
• Offer a genuine, full-time skilled position available for at least two years.
• Pay a market rate salary of at least AUD $76,515 per year (excluding non-monetary benefits).
• Comply with Australian workplace and immigration laws.
• Pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy—$3,000 for small businesses (turnover under $10 million) or $5,000 for larger businesses.

For Applicants

You must:

• Have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Be under 45 years of age at the time of application (unless exempt).
• Have at least three years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation.
• Demonstrate competent English—IELTS score of at least 6 in each band or equivalent test.
• Have a positive skills assessment (if applying under Direct Entry).
• Meet health and character requirements.

Understanding the 186 visa for Australia requirements is essential for both employers and applicants before submitting an application under any stream.

Streams of the 186 Visa

1. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

For current holders of the TSS 482 or 457 visa who have worked for their nominating employer in the same occupation for at least two years.

Key Features:

• No new skills assessment required.
• Must demonstrate competent English.
• Direct pathway to permanent residency for ongoing employees.

2. Direct Entry Stream

Applies if you have not previously worked for your nominating employer under a temporary visa. You must have a positive skills assessment and three years of post-qualification work experience.

Benefits:

• No need to hold a temporary work visa first.
• Suitable for overseas applicants or skilled workers with direct job offers.

3. Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is for applicants sponsored under a labour agreement between their employer and the Australian government. It caters to specific industries, regional skill shortages, or projects agreed upon in the labour agreement.

186 Visa Application Process

The visa 186 for Australia application involves three key stages:

Stage 1: Skills Assessment

Before lodging your visa, you may need a formal skills assessment from a recognised authority for your occupation. This confirms your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.

Stage 2: Employer Nomination

Your employer must lodge a nomination with the Department of Home Affairs, demonstrating a genuine need for the position and the capacity to employ you for at least two years.

Stage 3: Visa Application

Submit your visa application within six months of nomination approval. Provide:

• Proof of English proficiency
• Work experience and qualifications
• Health and character documents

Once approved, you will receive permanent residency under the 186 Visa Australia.

How Long Does a 186 Visa Last?

Many applicants ask, “How long does a 186 visa last?” The Subclass 186 Visa grants permanent residency, meaning it does not expire as long as you remain in Australia as a permanent resident. It includes a five-year travel facility, allowing you to leave and re-enter Australia freely. After five years, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) is required to maintain travel rights or pursue citizenship.

Knowing how long does a 186 visa last? helps applicants plan for long-term settlement and future citizenship applications.

Exemptions and Age Flexibility

Some applicants may be exempt from age or English requirements:

• Senior academics at Australian universities
• Scientists, researchers, or technical specialists employed by Australian government agencies
• Medical practitioners working in regional Australia
• Legacy 457 or 482 visa holders under transitional provisions

Key Advantages of the 186 Visa

• Grants permanent residency to you and eligible family members
• Provides access to Medicare, education, and social security benefits
• Offers a pathway to Australian citizenship
• No points test required—eligibility depends on employer nomination and experience
• Ability to sponsor family members for Australian permanent residency

The visa 186 for Australia offers one of the most stable routes for skilled professionals seeking a long-term future in Australia.

Latest 186 Visa Updates (2025)

• TSS 482 visa holders can transition to permanent residency after two years with their employer
• The age limit of 45 years continues, except for exempt categories
• The minimum salary threshold (TSMIT) increased to $76,515 per annum from 1 July 2025
• Employers must pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) contribution upfront

These updates are critical for understanding the 186 visa for Australia requirements and ensuring compliance before application submission.

Partner with Kritin Global

Applying for the 186 Visa Australia can be complex. At Kritin Global, our registered migration agents simplify the process with:

• Expert eligibility assessment
• Employer nomination support
• Professional guidance for visa preparation and lodgement
• Transparent updates and ongoing case management

Contact us today to start your permanent residency journey under the Employer Nomination Scheme.

FAQs – 186 Visa for Australia

What is a 186 Visa in Australia?
The Subclass 186 Visa is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely after sponsorship by an eligible employer.

Who is eligible for the 186 Visa for Australia?
Applicants must have employer nomination, relevant skills and work experience, English proficiency, health and character clearance, and generally be under 45 years old (with exemptions available).

How long does a 186 Visa last?
It provides permanent residency. The visa includes a five-year travel facility, after which a Resident Return Visa (RRV) is required to maintain travel rights if leaving Australia.

Can I apply for the 186 Visa from overseas?
Yes, offshore applications are allowed. Your employer’s nomination must be approved before lodging your visa application. Streams like Direct Entry and Labour Agreement are suitable for overseas applicants.

What are the main benefits of the 186 Visa?
Benefits include permanent residency for you and family, access to Medicare, education, social security, a pathway to citizenship, and freedom to change employers after a set period.