The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is Australia's permanent employer-sponsored visa. If an Australian employer is willing to nominate you for a skilled position, this visa grants you permanent residence — the right to live and work in Australia with no expiry.
What is the Subclass 186 Visa?
The 186 has two main pathways. The Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream is for people already in Australia on a Subclass 482 (or former 457) visa who have worked for the same employer for at least 3 years. The Direct Entry stream is for applicants coming from offshore or without a prior work visa.
This is a permanent visa — once granted, there is no time limit on your right to remain in Australia.
Who Can Apply?
TRT Stream
Hold or have held a 482 or 457 visa and worked for the same employer in the same role for at least 3 years.
Direct Entry Stream
Applying from offshore or without a prior work visa. Requires a skills assessment and relevant work experience.
Age
Generally under 45 years of age at time of application. Occupation-specific exemptions may apply.
Employer Nomination
Your employer must be an approved sponsor and nominate you for a genuine, ongoing skilled position.
English Proficiency
Competent English required — IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or OET. Exemptions apply in some circumstances.
Health & Character
You and any family members on the application must meet health and character requirements.
Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa
Permanent Residence
Live and work anywhere in Australia with no expiry
Include Family
Partner and dependent children can be included
Medicare Access
Eligible for Australia's public healthcare system
Travel Rights
Travel freely in and out of Australia for 5 years from grant
Path to Citizenship
Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
How to Apply — Key Steps
- 1
Contact Tachnat
We determine whether TRT or Direct Entry applies, review your employment history, and advise your employer on their obligations.
- 2
Employer Lodges Nomination
Your employer submits a nomination confirming the role is genuine, ongoing, and meets salary requirements.
- 3
Prepare Documentation
Employment records, qualifications, English test results, police clearances, medical examination, and skills assessment where required.
- 4
Lodge Visa Application
Tachnat prepares and submits your full application through ImmiAccount.
- 5
Visa Decision
On approval from the Department of Home Affairs, your permanent 186 visa is granted.
Ready to make your move to Australia permanent?
The 186 has specific requirements that many agents miss — especially around the TRT stream. Tachnat's migration lawyers work from the same policy guidelines as case officers, giving you the best chance of a clean, first-time approval.
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