At Emigrate Australia, we specialize in assisting skilled professionals with seamless visa processing to Australia. Among the most sought-after immigration options, Employer-Sponsored Visas enable individuals to live and work in Australia either on a temporary or permanent basis.

As the name implies, these visas are sponsored by Australian employers who are looking to fill specific skill shortages within their organizations. If you’re applying under this category, you’ll need to provide:

• A valid job offer or employment contract from an Australian employer

• A sponsorship declaration from the sponsoring company

• All supporting documentation that verifies your qualifications and professional experience

Whether you’re seeking a long-term career in Australia or a temporary work assignment, Emigrate Australia can guide you through every step of the employer-sponsored visa process with expert advice and reliable support.

Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa

Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia

The Subclass 186 visa is a permanent residency visa that enables skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. It is ideal for employers who are unable to find suitably qualified Australian citizens or permanent residents for specific skilled roles.

The visa includes three streams, each tailored to different applicant profiles:

1. Direct Entry Stream

Who it’s for: Skilled professionals who have not worked in Australia or have limited local work experience. Ideal for overseas applicants or those ineligible for the Temporary Residence Transition stream.

• Permanent residency granted

• Application fee: From AUD 4,115

• Processing time: Approximately 6–8 months

• Requirements:
  • Nomination by an Australian employer

  • Relevant occupation on the MLTSSL or STSOL

  • Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience

  • Positive skill assessment

  • English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 in each module

  • Functional English for dependents over 18 (IELTS 4.5)

2. Labour Agreement Stream

Who it’s for: Skilled workers sponsored under a formal Labour Agreement between an Australian employer and the government to address specific labor shortages.

• Permanent residency granted

• Application fee: From AUD 4,115

• Processing time: Varies based on the agreement

• Requirements:
  • Employer must hold a valid Labour Agreement

  • Nomination for an occupation on the Combined Skilled Occupation List

  • Meet the age, skills, and English criteria outlined in the agreement

  • Adherence to all visa and immigration conditions

3. Temporary Residence Transition Stream

Who it’s for: Existing holders of Subclass 457 or Subclass 482 (TSS) visas who have worked with their nominating employer for at least 3 years and are being offered a permanent position.

• Permanent residency granted

• Application fee: From AUD 4,115

• Processing time: Approximately 6–8 months

• Requirements:
  • At least 3 years of full-time employment with the sponsoring employer

  • English proficiency: IELTS 5.0 in each module (unless exempt)

  • Functional English for secondary applicants over 18

  • No skill assessment required

General Eligibility Criteria for All Streams

Applicants must:

• Be under 45 years of age at the time of application (unless exempt)

• Be nominated by an eligible Australian employer

• Apply within 6 months of nomination approval

• Possess the required skills, qualifications, and English proficiency

• Meet health and character requirements

Eligibility Criteria for Employers

Employers must:

• Operate legally and actively in Australia

• Demonstrate genuine need for a skilled position (minimum 2 years full-time)

• Offer a salary aligned with industry standards

• Meet training benchmark requirements

• Be compliant with workplace and immigration laws

Health & Character Requirements

All applicants and included dependents must:

• Undergo medical examinations (valid within the past 12 months)

• Provide police clearance certificates from countries lived in over the past 10 years

Including Family Members

The 186 visa allows you to include:

• Your spouse or de facto partner

• Your or your partner’s dependent children or stepchildren

Benefits of the 186 Visa

• Live, work, and study in Australia permanently

• Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)

• Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)

• Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency

• Travel to and from Australia freely for five years from visa grant date

Why Choose Emigrate Australia?

Navigating the Subclass 186 process requires expert guidance. From skill assessments and choosing the right stream to understanding exemptions and compliance, our experienced migration consultants are here to help.

With over 8 years of proven success in Australian immigration services, Emigrate Australia is your trusted partner in securing your future.

Book a free eligibility assessment today and take the first step toward a life in Australia!