If you wish to obtain permanent residency and permanent work rights, the most commonly used work visa is the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa
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Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa - your permanent work visa
There are a number of different types of work visa in Australia however if you wish to obtain permanent residency and permanent work rights, two of the most commonly used visas are as follows. Each of these options require the visa applicant to be sponsored by an Australian employer.
Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa
This visa has three streams. Visa applicants need to choose one depending on their objectives and circumstances:
- The Temporary Residence Transition Stream: This stream is available to visa applicants who have been working on a subclass 482 visa or subclass 457 visa for at least two of the three years immediately prior to their subclass 186 visa application. They must also be nominated for the same occupation that they performed under their subclass 482 visa or 457 visa. A skills assessment is typically not required because the visa applicant has already worked for at least two years in the relevant occupation (and therefore it can be assumed that they have the skills, qualifications, and experience to perform the nominated occupation).
- The Direct Entry Stream: This stream is for applicants who do not qualify for the temporary residence transition stream. There is no requirement for the applicant to have ever worked in Australia. Therefore, as long as the employer nominates the employee under this stream, an overseas worker can obtain permanent residency immediately (without having to obtain a temporary visa first). Skills assessments are typically required.
- The Agreement Stream: This is for employers who have entered into a labour agreement.
There are age restrictions which currently differ depending on the chosen stream, English language requirements, as well as various other criteria. Given that immigration law changes frequently, it is important that you obtain independent advice.
You will find an overview on the requirements here: Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) visa
This visa is very similar to the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa and has the same three streams.
However, as the name suggests, the position must be located in regional Australia.
The Department of Home Affairs has closed this visa for new visa applicants.
Read more about:
Business Sponsorship for Employers
sc 457 visa - Grandfathering Arrangements
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Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa
Posted: Migration Agent
Published: 2019-06-06
Updated: 2023-01-16
