Employer Nomination Scheme Visa
Subclass 186
The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. It is intended for individuals who are nominated by an approved Australian employer for a permanent position in an eligible occupation.
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​It is designed for applicants who:
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Are currently working in Australia on a qualifying visa (such as Subclass 482) or are outside Australia.
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Have the skills, qualifications, and work experience required for the nominated occupation.
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Have an employer willing to sponsor them for a permanent position.
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Meet English language, health, and character requirements.
Visa Streams
Main Requirements
Be nominated by an approved Australian employer for an eligible occupation
Be under 45 years of age at the
time of application
(some exemptions apply)
Hold the necessary skills assessment and qualifications
Have at least 3 years of relevant work experience (for DE stream)
Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.0 overall or equivalent)
Meet health and character requirements
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the stream and case complexity. Applications with complete documentation and health checks are processed faster.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream
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6 – 12 months
Direct Entry Stream
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6 – 12 months
Labour Agreement Stream
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8 – 14 months
Costs & Fees
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Main applicant
From AUD 4,910
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Additional applicant (18+ years)
From AUD 2,455
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Additional applicant (under 18)
From AUD 1,230
Employers must also pay the **Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy**, ranging from AUD 3,000 to AUD 5,000 depending on the size of the business.
Key Benefits
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Grants permanent residency in Australia
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Allows unrestricted work and study rights
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Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
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Ability to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence
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Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
Process
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Employer lodges a nomination for an eligible occupation and permanent position.
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Applicant lodges the visa application online via ImmiAccount.
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Submit required documents – identification, skills assessment, English test, and health/character checks.
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Wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs.
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Once approved, you and your family become Australian permanent residents.
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. Can I apply for the 186 visa directly without a 482 visa?
Yes. If you meet the Direct Entry stream requirements, you can apply directly without holding a 482 visa.
02. Can my family members be included in the application?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your application. They will enjoy the same permanent residency benefits as you.
03. What happens if my employer withdraws the nomination?
If the nomination is withdrawn before a decision is made, your visa application cannot be approved.
04. Can I change employers after getting the 186 visa?
Yes. Once the visa is granted, you are a permanent resident and not tied to your employer. However, your sponsor is expected to employ you for at least two years initially.
05.What English level do I need?
Generally, IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) in each band is required, unless exempt due to nationality or other conditions.
