Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia
Australia’s Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) provides skilled workers with a direct pathway to permanent residency. This visa is ideal for individuals who have an employer willing to sponsor them for a job in Australia. If you are a skilled worker seeking long-term stability in Australia, understanding the requirements and process for the Subclass 186 visa is crucial. .
What is the Subclass 186 Visa?
The ENS Visa (Subclass 186) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. .
Streams of the Subclass 186 Visa
The ENS visa consists of three main streams:
1. Direct Entry (DE) Stream
- For applicants who have relevant skills and qualifications but do not necessarily require prior work experience in Australia.
- Requires a positive skills assessment (in most cases) and at least three years of relevant work experience.
- The employer must demonstrate that the position is genuine and that no suitable Australian worker is available.
2. Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream
- For applicants who have worked for their sponsoring employer on a Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa or Subclass 457 visa for at least two years (or three years under the new rules in effect from 25 November 2023).
- Does not require a skills assessment.
- Employer must continue to meet nomination requirements.
3. Labour Agreement Stream
- For applicants nominated by an employer who has a Labour Agreement with the Australian Government.
- The nomination and visa application must comply with the terms of the Labour Agreement.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 186 visa, applicants generally must:
- Be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
- Meet the age requirement (under 45 years old unless an exemption applies).
- Have competent English (unless an exemption applies).
- Possess the required skills and qualifications relevant to the nominated occupation.
- Meet health and character requirements.
Benefits of the Subclass 186 Visa
- Permanent residency in Australia.
- Ability to live and work anywhere in the country.
- Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
- Pathway to Australian citizenship.
- Ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
Employer Obligations
Employers who nominate workers for the ENS visa must:
- Demonstrate that the position is genuine and in line with Australian labour market needs.
- Provide terms and conditions of employment that are no less favourable than those for Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Processing Times
The processing time for a Subclass 186 visa varies depending on the stream and the complexity of the application. As of 2025, estimated processing times are:
- Direct Entry Stream: 5 to 18 months.
- TRT Stream: 5 to 18 months.
- Labour Agreement Stream: Variable.
How We Can Help
Navigating the Subclass 186 visa process can be complex, with strict eligibility requirements and extensive documentation. At Jade Immigration Law, we provide expert guidance to employers and skilled workers, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards securing your Australian permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa.
Useful Links:
Australian Government Department of Home Affairs – Subclass 186 Visa
Need Help? Contact Jade Immigration Lawyers for expert advice on your specific case. You can also check Jade’s profile to get to know her and her expertise in this area.