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186 Direct Entry Visa – A Path to PR Without a 482

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186 Direct Entry Visa

186 Direct Entry Visa – A Path to PR Without a 482

The 186 Direct Entry visa is a permanent employer-sponsored visa for skilled workers applying directly from overseas or within Australia, even without holding a prior 482 visa. Unlike the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream, this pathway is ideal for applicants with recognised skills and qualifications who may not have worked long-term for an Australian employer.

Importantly, the 186 visa Direct Entry stream allows employers to sponsor foreign workers for long-term positions where local talent is not readily available. Therefore, it is a powerful option for skilled professionals and Australian employers alike.

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Who Can Apply for the 186 Direct Entry Visa?

You may be eligible to apply for the Subclass 186 Direct Entry stream if you:

  • Are nominated by an approved Australian employer
  • Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
  • Are under 45 years of age (unless exempt)
  • Have a positive skills assessment for your occupation
  • Meet the English language requirements (typically Competent English)
  • Satisfy health and character checks

This stream is open to both overseas applicants and those in Australia on other visas.

Benefits of the 186 Visa Direct Entry

Applying for the 186 visa via Direct Entry offers several long-term advantages:

  • Grants permanent residency to you and eligible family members
  • No prior Australian work experience required
  • Access to Medicare, public services, and home ownership pathways
  • Eligible for citizenship after meeting residency requirements
  • Allows full work, study, and travel rights in Australia

Moreover, this stream provides a direct pathway to settle in Australia without needing to transition through a temporary visa first.

186 Direct Entry Process – Step by Step

  1. Confirm eligibility – Check occupation list, age, skills, and English level
  2. Get skills assessment – Apply to the relevant authority for your occupation
  3. Employer lodges nomination – Must be a standard business sponsor
  4. Lodge your visa application – Apply online via ImmiAccount after nomination approval
  5. Complete health and character checks – Attend appointments and provide documents
  6. Wait for decision – Most decisions are made within 6 to 9 months

Cost of the 186 Direct Entry Visa

As of June 2025:

  • Primary applicant: AUD $4,770
  • Dependent over 18: AUD $2,380
  • Dependent under 18: AUD $1,190

Employers must also pay the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy:

  • $3,000 for businesses with turnover under $10 million
  • $5,000 for larger businesses

Other possible costs include medical exams, police checks, and document translations.

Need Help With Your 186 Direct Entry Visa?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we help:

  • Check if your occupation is eligible
  • Guide you through the skills assessment and nomination process
  • Prepare a complete and compliant visa application
  • Assist both employer and applicant with document requirements
  • Maximise your success through clear communication and expert insight

Ready to take the next step?

Speak with Jade Immigration Lawyers today – we’re here to help you find the best visa pathway.

📞 Call us: 0485 907 989
📧 Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
📅 Book a consultation now to get personalised immigration advice from our experienced team. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

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Practice Areas

Partner Visas
Family and Parent Visas
Work Related Visas
Waivers and Exemptions
Visa Refusal and Cancellation
Citizenship

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Work Visa Australia services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us. 

Do I need a 482 visa before applying for the 186 Direct Entry?

No. The Direct Entry stream allows you to apply for PR directly without first holding a temporary visa.

Is a skills assessment mandatory for the Direct Entry stream?

Yes. You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

Can I apply from outside Australia?

Yes. The 186 Direct Entry visa is open to both offshore and onshore applicants who meet all requirements.

What happens if my employer nomination is refused?

Your visa application cannot proceed without a valid nomination. We can help review options such as a nomination review or alternative visa pathways.

How long does the 186 Direct Entry visa take to process?

 

On average, processing takes 6 to 9 months, depending on application completeness and Departmental workload.