EMPLOYER NOMINATION SCHEME
SUBCLASS 186
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian employer. It allows eligible individuals to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa is available under three different streams: Direct Entry Stream, Temporary Transition Stream and Labour Agreement Stream.
Disclaimers: While we strive to ensure the information on this website is accurate and up to date, the information provided on this website is intended as a general guide and was accurate at time of publication.. Migration laws and policies can change frequently. We recommend visiting the Department of Home Affairs' website for the most current information.
The visa requirements listed on this website are general guidelines and represent the most common criteria. However, additional requirements or different criteria may apply based on individual circumstances. It is important to consult with an immigration professional or the relevant authorities to ensure you meet all specific requirements for your situation.
Subclass 186 - Direct Entry Stream
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
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You must have been nominated by an Australian employer for an occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List
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You must have at least 3 years full-time work experience in the same occupation, unless exempt
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You must have a positive skills assessment before lodging the application, unless exempt
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You must have competent English
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You must be under 45 at time of application, unless exempt
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You must meet health and character requirements
WHAT THIS VISA ALLOWS YOU TO DO
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Live, work and study in Australia indefinitely
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Travel to and from Australia during the validity of the travel facility of the visa
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Access Australia's health care scheme - Medicare. You may find information about Medicare eligibility at Services Australia website.
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Sponsor eligible relatives to come to Australia
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Apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION*
Subclass 186 visa holders should be aware that:
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They must comply with all conditions imposed on the visa applicant when the visa was granted
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They must obey Australian law
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FEES AND CHARGES
Government Visa Application Charges
First Instalment
Base visa application charge for a Employer Nomination (subclass 186) is of AUD4,910.00​.
Additional applicant charge for those who are 18 or over is of AUD2,455.00
Additional applicant charge for those under 18 is of AUD1,230.00
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Second Instalment
Primary applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD9,800.00
Secondary applicants 18 and over without Functional English: AUD4,890.00
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Please check the Department of Home Affairs' website for the latest information relating to visa application charges
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Please note that the visa application charge is the application fee charged by the Department to assess the application. Any professional fees or other services such as police checks, health examinations, translations, etc., are charged separately.
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View our schedule of fees for professional services here.
PROCESSING TIMES
Processing time for a Subclass 186 visa application in the Direct Entry Stream may vary from 6 to 17 months, depending on the individual circumstances and completeness of the application.
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More information may be found at the Department's website.