The Subclass 186 Visa, also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian employer. This visa allows skilled professionals to live and work in Australia permanently, providing a pathway to Australian citizenship.
Types of Subclass 186 Visa
There are three streams under the Subclass 186 Visa:
Direct Entry Stream – For skilled workers who do not have an existing temporary work visa.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream – For Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders who have worked for their employer for at least three years.
Labour Agreement Stream – For workers sponsored by an employer under a labor agreement.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Subclass 186 Visa, applicants must:
✔ Be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
✔ Have the required skills and work experience relevant to the nominated occupation.
✔ Meet the English language proficiency requirements.
✔ Be under 45 years of age (some exceptions apply).
✔ Meet health and character requirements.
Benefits of Subclass 186 Visa
✅ Permanent residency in Australia.
✅ Ability to work and study without restrictions.
✅ Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
✅ Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship in the future.
✅ Ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
Application Process
Employer Nomination – The employer submits a nomination application for the skilled worker.
Visa Application – The applicant applies for the visa after receiving nomination approval.
Processing Time – The visa processing time varies based on the stream and individual circumstances.
Processing Time for Subclass 186 Visa
The processing time depends on factors such as application completeness, demand, and background checks. Typically:
Direct Entry Stream: 6 to 12 months
Temporary Residence Transition Stream: 8 to 14 months
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 186 Visa is a great opportunity for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. If you meet the eligibility criteria and have an employer willing to sponsor you, this visa can open doors to a bright future in Australia.
