If you’re planning to live and work in Australia permanently, the Australian 186 visa could be your chance to make that goal happen. This visa helps skilled workers move from a temporary work visa to permanent residency with the help of an Australian employer. In 2025, the process may seem long, but if you know the right steps, it’s much easier to manage.
This blog will take you through the exact steps you need to follow to apply for this visa. Whether you’re already in Australia on a temporary visa or applying from overseas, this article can help you take the right path.
What Is the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa?
The employer nomination scheme visa is a permanent residency visa. It allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers for jobs that can’t be filled by local candidates. If you’re nominated by an employer, you and your family can stay in Australia permanently.
This visa is divided into three streams:
- Temporary Residence Transition Stream (TRT)
- Direct Entry Stream (DE)
- Labour Agreement Stream
Each stream has different rules, and the one you choose depends on your work history, visa status, and your employer’s position.
Step 1: Know Which Stream You’re Eligible For
Start by understanding the three main streams:
Temporary Residence Transition Stream
If you’ve already worked in Australia on a 457 or 482 visa for at least three years, this may be the best option. You must:
- Work with the same employer full-time for at least two years
- Be under 45 years old
- Meet English language standards (IELTS score of 6 or equivalent)
Direct Entry Stream
This is for people who haven’t worked for the sponsoring employer before or have only worked for a short time. You must:
- Have at least three years of relevant work experience
- Pass a skills assessment for your occupation
- Be under 45 years old
- Show competent English skills
Labour Agreement Stream
This is for workers hired under a formal labour agreement between an employer and the Australian government. You must:
- Meet all terms mentioned in the agreement
- Have the required skills and experience
- Be under 45 unless the agreement says otherwise
Step 2: Check the Occupation List and Skills Requirements
Each stream is linked to a list of eligible occupations. You’ll need to confirm that your job is on that list. You must also have the right qualifications and work experience.
For the Direct Entry Stream, you’ll need a positive skills assessment from an approved authority in your field. This shows that your skills match the Australian standards.
Step 3: Get an Employer Nomination
You can’t apply without a nomination. Your Australian employer must:
- Be approved by the Department of Home Affairs
- Offer you a full-time job in a listed skilled occupation
- Submit a nomination application on your behalf
Make sure your employer is willing and able to do this. The job they offer must be genuine and not just created for visa purposes.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Now comes the paperwork. You’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Proof of English language skills (IELTS, PTE, etc.)
- Work references and employment history
- A positive skills assessment (if needed)
- Qualification documents
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical exam results
- Nomination approval details from your employer
Keep copies of all documents ready and make sure nothing is missing. A complete application reduces delays.
Step 5: Apply for the Visa
Once your employer’s nomination is approved, you can submit your visa application online through the Immi Account portal. You’ll be asked to:
- Fill out personal and work details
- Attach all required documents
- Pay the application fee
You must apply within six months of your nomination being approved.
Step 6: Wait for the Outcome
Visa 186 processing times vary by stream and your personal case. On average, it can take:
- 5 to 9 months for the Temporary Residence Transition Stream
- 6 to 14 months for the Direct Entry Stream
- Times vary for Labour Agreement Stream
Make sure to check your email and Immi Account regularly in case they ask for more documents.
Step 7: After Visa Grant – What’s Next?
If your visa is granted, congratulations! You and your family can now:
- Live and work in Australia permanently
- Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
- Study at any Australian school or university
- Apply for citizenship when eligible
- Sponsor family members for permanent residency
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some things to watch out for:
- Not checking the latest occupation list
- Skipping the skills assessment when required
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Applying under the wrong stream
- Missing the application window after nomination approval
Taking time to understand the steps saves you from delays and stress.
Final Tips Before You Apply
- Keep your documents organized from the beginning.
- Make sure your employer is cooperative and understands their role.
- Practice your English if needed before taking the test.
- Plan financially, as the visa fee and health checks can be costly.
Your Path to a New Life in Australia
The Australian 186 visa is a good way to build a secure and permanent future in Australia. If you’re working in a skilled role and have an employer willing to support you, this visa offers a clear path to residency. Just make sure you follow the right process, meet all the requirements, and stay updated with any rule changes in 2025.
If you want help with your visa application or finding a trusted employer, KnN Migration Advisors can guide you through each step. Their team understands how the visa 186 process works and can support your journey toward a better future in Australia.
