Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)

What is it?

Visa 186 is the permanent employer-nominated pathway in Australia. Your employer nominates you for a permanent position with full work rights from day one. There are three streams: Direct Entry (no prior 482 needed), Temporary Residence Transition (after 2-3 years on a 482), and Labour Agreement (specific industries). The 186 doesn't have an EOI points test in most streams — your employer's nomination is the primary qualification.

Key benefits

• Permanent residence from day one
• No EOI points test in most streams
• Full work rights with the sponsoring employer
• Bring spouse and dependent children as PRs
• Path to citizenship after 4 years of residence

Key requirements

Maximum age

45 years

Minimum English

competent

Occupation list

Varies

Who qualifies? Workers with an Australian employer nominating them for a permanent role, an MLTSSL occupation, at least 3 years relevant experience, and a positive skills assessment (waived for high-income earners in some streams).