Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186)
Have you ever dreamed of romping on Bondi Beach, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, or launching a fulfilling career in Australia?
The Subclass 186 Employer Enrollment Scheme (ENS) visa can turn that dream into reality.
This visa unlocks permanent residence for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer, giving you the freedom to live, work and explore the land indefinitely. In this blog, you will find out all you need to know about the subclass 186 visa, from processing time, eligibility, estimated fees and more
Employer Nomination Scheme visa
This visa lets skilled workers, who are nominated by their employer, live and work in Australia permanently.
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Stream
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Description
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Requirements
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Stay
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Cost (AUD)
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Processing Time
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Direct Entry
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Live and work permanently with employer nomination.
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Nominated employer
Skilled occupation on the list
At least Competent English
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Permanently
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From 4,640
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Processing Time Guide
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Labour Agreement
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Live and work permanently with the employer's labour agreement.
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Employer with a labour agreement
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Permanently
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From 4,640
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Processing Time Guide
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Temporary Residence Transition
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Transition to permanent residency with employer nomination.
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Hold specific visa (457, TSS, etc.)
Worked full-time for an employer ( 2+ years)
Nominated by employer
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Permanent
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From 4,640
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Processing Time Guide
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FREE ELIGIBILITY CHECK
What is Subclass 186 Visa Australia
Direct Entry stream
This visa lets skilled workers, who are nominated by an employer, live and work in Australia permanently.
You must be nominated by an Australian employer.
Your occupation must be on the relevant list of eligible skilled occupations.
You must have at least Competent English
Stay
Permanently
Cost
From AUD4,640.00
Processing Time
For an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool. This will show the processing times for recently decided applications. It is a guide only and not specific to your application.
Labour agreement stream
This visa lets skilled workers who are nominated by their employer live and work in Australia permanently. The Labour Agreement stream might be for you if you currently work, or will work, for an employer who is party to a labour agreement.
The employer must have a labour agreement
Stay
Permanently
Cost
From AUD4,640.00
Processing Time
For an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool. This will show the processing times for recently decided applications. It is a guide only and not specific to your application.
Temporary Residence Transition stream
This visa lets skilled workers, who are nominated by their employer, live and work in Australia permanently.
You must hold a 457, TSS or related bridging visa A, B or C
Usually, you must have worked for your employer full-time for at least two years
You must be nominated by your employer
Stay
Permanent
Cost
From AUD4,640.00
Processing Time
For an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool. This will show the processing times for recently decided applications. It is a guide only and not specific to your application.
Subclass 186 Visa Step-by-step Process
Thinking about applying for an Australian Subclass 186 visa (Employer Nomination Scheme)? This visa is a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. Here's a breakdown of the key steps involved:
Eligibility Check: Dive into the details! The Department of Home Affairs website. outlines the official requirements for the Subclass 186 visa. This will help you confirm if your skills and background align with the criteria.
Employer Sponsorship (Direct Entry Stream): Secure your sponsor! In this stream, your Australian employer nominates you for the visa. Obtain the Transaction Reference Number (TRN) from them – this will be crucial for your application.
Gather Your Documentation: Time to get organized! Compile all the necessary documents, including skills assessments, English language test results, and any other evidence that meets the eligibility requirements. Don't forget to factor in health checks and character requirements – check the official website for details.
Apply Online Within Six Months: Once nominated, act swiftly! You have six months to lodge your visa application through your ImmiAccount. The application process is online, and you can apply from within or outside Australia. Remember to pay the visa application fee during submission.
Be Ready for Additional Information: The Department of Home Affairs might request further information like biometrics or clarification on specific aspects of your application. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Awaiting the Outcome: Patience is key! The department will process your application and notify you of the decision. If your visa is refused, they will provide reasons and information on potential review options.
Subclass186 Visa Processing Time
Direct entry stream: 75% of applications are processed within 83 days, and 90% are processed within six months.
Labour agreement stream: Due to low numbers of this visa type, there are no numbers available.
Temporary residence transition stream: 75% of applications are processed within six months, and 90% of applications within ten months.
Subclass 186 visa Fees
The direct entry stream, Labour agreement stream, and temporary residence transition stream all cost from AU$4,640. Additional applicants over 18 years are $2,025 each, and under 18 years are $1,010 each.
Subclass 186 visa Eligibility criteria
The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa allows skilled workers to obtain permanent residency in Australia with sponsorship from an Australian employer. To be eligible for this visa, you'll need to meet a range of criteria set by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. Here's a breakdown of the key eligibility requirements:
Skilled Occupation and Work Experience:
Must possess the skills and experience necessary to perform the nominated job, which should be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
Generally, a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in your chosen profession or trade is required.
You might be required to submit a skills assessment conducted by an approved assessing authority or have a relevant license, registration, or membership with a governing body to prove your skills and experience.
Employer Nomination:
An Australian employer who is a registered sponsor with the Department of Home Affairs must nominate you for the visa.
This process ensures the employer operates legally and genuinely requires your skills.
Your visa application can be denied if the nominator has negative information or withdraws the nomination.
Age Requirement:
The general age limit for the Subclass 186 visa is under 45 years old at the time of application.
Exceptions exist for specific professions like academic lecturers, scientists, and researchers.
Another exception applies if you already hold a Subclass 444 visa (Skilled Specialist) and are currently employed by the nominating employer.
Health Requirements:
You, and any family members accompanying you, must meet the minimum health standards set by the Australian government.
This includes undergoing a medical examination by a registered healthcare provider approved for visa purposes. The results will be submitted on your behalf.
The primary purpose of health checks is to ensure you won't place a significant burden on the Australian healthcare system.
Character Requirements:
These requirements aim to assess your good character and suitability for living in Australia.
A criminal record, involvement with anti-social groups or organizations, or potential for engaging in criminal activity or inciting discord in the community can lead to visa refusal.
You might be required to provide police certificates from any country you've lived in for a certain period and complete character reference forms.
Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL):
The SOL is a dynamic list of occupations in demand within the Australian labor market. It's subject to change based on Australia's current and projected skill needs.
Not all occupations are eligible for all visa types, so ensure your specific occupation is included on the SOL for the Subclass 186 visa. You can find the latest SOL on the Department of Home Affairs website.
English Language Skills:
Unless you're a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland, you'll need to demonstrate competency in English.
This is assessed by achieving the required score on an approved English language test like IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. The specific score requirement might vary depending on the chosen test.
Additional Considerations:
Government Debt: Outstanding debts owed to the Australian government can negatively impact your visa application.
Previous Visa Issues: Previous visa cancellations or refusals in Australia or other countries can affect your eligibility for the Subclass 186 visa.
Subclass 186 visa Documents required
There are a lot of documents required, so do start gathering these as soon as possible. These may be required for any eligible family members who are intending to travel with you too. Not all of these will be required, or immigration may request more evidence.
English competency certificate dated within the last three years
Police certificates proving good character
Form 80 for character assessment
A character statutory declaration
skills assessment for occupation or proof of industry body registration
skills assessment exemption documents
CV/ resume
Proof of ID, such as passport, birth certificate, national identity card
Proof of name change, if relevant
Marriage certificate, if relevant
A signed Australian values statement
Proof of good health- this should be submitted by your healthcare provider
Age exemption documents if over 45 years of age
Partner/ dependent documents, which may include ID proof, character documents, English test results, and health assessment results.
FAQ's
1. What are the top 3 benefits of the Subclass 186 visa?
Permanent Residency: Unlike other temporary work visas, Subclass 186 grants permanent residency in Australia. This means you can live and work in Australia indefinitely, with the ability to travel freely in and out of the country.
Career Opportunities: The visa allows you to pursue skilled professions in Australia, potentially leading to better career prospects and higher earning potential.
Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship, granting you full political rights and additional benefits.
2. How long does it typically take to get a Subclass 186 visa?
Direct Entry: 75% of applications are processed within 83 days, and 90% are processed within six months (according to the latest information on the Department of Home Affairs.
Labour Agreement Stream: Due to the lower volume of applications, specific processing timeframes are not available.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream: 75% of applications are processed within six months, and 90% are processed within ten months.
3. What are the common reasons for Subclass 186 visa application rejections?
Ineligibility: Not meeting the basic requirements like age, skills assessment, nomination, or health checks.
Incomplete Application: Missing documents, incorrect information, or not following the application process properly.
Character Issues: Having a criminal record or failing to meet good character requirements.
Negative Skills Assessment: Not demonstrating the required skills and experience for the nominated occupation.
Issues with Employer Nomination: If the employer nomination is withdrawn or deemed invalid.
4. Can I apply for a Subclass 186 visa if I'm over 45 years old?
Specific Professions: Certain professions, like academic lecturers, scientists, and researchers, may have a higher age limit.
Previous Visa: If you already hold a Subclass 444 visa and are working for the same employer who nominated you, the age limit may not apply.
5. What documents do I need to prepare for a Subclass 186 visa application?
The exact documents required can vary depending on your circumstances, but here's a general list to get you started (Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the latest list):
Proof of Identity: Passport, birth certificate, etc.
Nomination from an Australian Employer: Including the Transaction Reference Number (TRN).
Skills Assessment: Demonstrating your skills for the nominated occupation.
English Language Test Results: Unless exempt, you'll need to meet the English language requirements.
Health Examination Results: For yourself and any accompanying family members.
Police Certificates: From any countries you've lived in for an extended period.
Character Documents: A statutory declaration and form 80.
Educational Qualifications: Diplomas, degrees, etc., relevant to your occupation.
Proof of Work Experience: References, employment contracts, payslips, etc.
Financial Documents: May be required in some cases.
Dependant Information: If applicable, documents for any family members migrating with you.
Feeling confident about your eligibility? Don't wait! Get started on your Subclass 186 visa application today with Triple I Business Services. The sooner you begin, the smoother your journey can be.
For an extra boost of confidence, download our free Subclass 186 Visa Check your Eligibility FREE. This handy guide will keep you on track throughout the application process.
Need professional help to navigate the complexities of the Subclass 186 visa application? Contact the Triple I Business team. Their experienced immigration specialists can provide valuable assistance and ensure your application is strong.
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For more information related to an Australia Subclass 186 Visa or any other visa Call or WhatsApp: +91 859 574 4633 or Email: [email protected]
