Employer Nomination
Scheme (Subclass 186)
Secure your permanent future in Australia. This visa enables approved employers to sponsor highly skilled workers to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
Visa Validity
Permanent
Live & work indefinitely
Pathway
Direct PR
No temporary step needed
Work Required
2-3 Years
Depending on stream
Base Cost
From $4,770
Applicant cost (AUD)
Understanding the 186 Visa
The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa Subclass 186 represents the ultimate goal for many skilled migrants. It allows employers to sponsor highly competent international workers for full permanent residency in Australia.
This visa is incredibly versatile. Whether you are currently overseas and looking for a direct route to migrate, or you are already in Australia holding a temporary work visa (like the 482 or 457) and want to solidify your future, the 186 visa provides a stable pathway.
At our consultancy, we meticulously manage the complexities of employer nominations and individual visa applications to ensure every requirement is met for a successful permanent residency outcome.
Available Options
The Three ENS Visa Pathways
Choose the pathway that matches your current visa status and work experience.
Direct Entry Pathway
Designed for highly skilled applicants who are either outside of Australia or do not currently hold a qualifying temporary work visa.
Outcome
Grants immediate Permanent Residency indefinitely.
Key Criteria
You must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience in your field and pass a formal skills assessment for your nominated occupation.
Language Standards
Requires Competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in all bands or equivalent).
Core Eligibility Framework
To qualify for permanent residency under the 186 visa, applicants must satisfy these fundamental benchmarks.
Age Limit
Generally, you must be under 45 years of age (exemptions may apply).
Linguistic Competence
Competent English is required (e.g., IELTS 6.0 across all bands).
Verifiable Skills
Relevant experience and, in most cases, a formal positive skills assessment.
Health & Conduct
Standard clearance of comprehensive medical and background police checks.
Roadmap
The Application Lifecycle
A clear overview of the permanent residency sponsorship process.
Business Nomination
The employer nominates the specific position, proving it aligns with eligible skilled occupations.
Lodge Application
The nominated employee submits their visa application alongside comprehensive health, skill, and character documents.
Permanent Grant
The Department of Home Affairs approves the application, granting full Australian Permanent Residency.
Employer Obligations
Unlike temporary visas, the ENS 186 removes some hurdles but strictly enforces others.
- Genuine Need: Employers must demonstrate a definitive long term need for the employee in their business operations.
- No LMT Required: Crucially, Labour Market Testing is NOT required for the ENS visa.
- Fair Conditions: Employers must comply fully with Australian employment laws, ensuring equitable conditions.
Structured Fees
*These are Department of Home Affairs charges. Fees for mandatory health checks, police clearances, and third party skills assessments are charged separately by their respective authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to secure your permanent future?
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