Why Choose the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)?

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186 is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an approved Australian employer. It is ideal for professionals and tradespeople with in-demand skills who have a confirmed job offer and want to settle in Australia long term.

This visa offers a direct route to permanent residency and is especially suited for those seeking stability and a future with their Australian employer.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa

• Live and work in Australia permanently

• Access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare)

• Pathway to Australian citizenship

• Sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency

• Travel in and out of Australia for five years from the visa grant date

Streams Under the ENS Subclass 186 Visa

There are three streams under this visa subclass:

1. Direct Entry Stream: For applicants who have never worked, or have only briefly worked, in Australia.

2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream: For subclass 482 visa holders who have worked for their employer for at least 2 of the last 3 years.

3. Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored under a labour agreement between an employer and the Australian Government.

Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Subclass 186 visa, applicants must generally:

• Be under 45 years of age at the time of application

• Be nominated by an approved Australian employer

• Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list

• Obtain a positive skills assessment (Direct Entry Stream only)

• Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience

• Meet competent English language requirements

• Satisfy Australia’s health and character checks

Proving English Language Competency

You must achieve minimum scores in one of the approved English language tests:

• IELTS: At least 6 in each band

• PTE Academic: Minimum 50 in each component

• Or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, OET, or Cambridge English (CAE)

Health and Character Criteria

All applicants and their family members must:

• Undergo a medical examination

• Provide police clearance certificates from countries lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years (from age 16)

Financial Obligations

Applicants must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government at the time of visa decision.

Family Members You Can Include

You can include the following dependents in your visa application:

• Your spouse or de facto partner

• Your or your partner’s children or stepchildren

Need Help with the Nomination and Application Process?

Applying for the Employer Nomination Scheme visa involves both employer nomination and applicant documentation. Our MARA-registered experts guide you through each step—from nomination and skills assessment to visa grant, ensuring full compliance with immigration law.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For official and up-to-date details, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.