| Two decisions | The employer nomination and the worker's visa application. |
|---|---|
| Streams | Temporary Residence Transition, Direct Entry and Labour Agreement. |
| Where to check times | The Home Affairs global visa processing times tool, updated monthly. |
| Priority processing | Ministerial directions can give priority to some applications, such as certain regional or occupation groups. |
| What you control | Lodging complete, decision-ready applications. |
Why 186 processing times vary
- The stream. Direct Entry applications often need a skills assessment and more evidence than Temporary Residence Transition applications.
- The nomination. The visa cannot be decided until the nomination is approved.
- Priority processing. Ministerial directions tell Home Affairs which applications to process first.
- Health and character checks. Medical examinations and overseas police certificates take time.
- Requests for information. Each request can add weeks or months.
Nomination problems that cause delays
- The position description does not match the occupation's tasks.
- The salary is below the market rate or the income threshold.
- Financial documents do not show the business can support the position.
- Evidence that the role is genuine is thin.
How to keep your application moving
- Check eligibility carefully before lodging, especially age, English and work history.
- Lodge the nomination and visa together where possible, with all documents uploaded.
- Arrange police certificates early, especially from overseas.
- Complete health examinations promptly when requested.
- Respond to any request for information well before the deadline, and completely.
- Tell Home Affairs about any change, such as a new address or a birth.
Can you ask Home Affairs to speed it up?
Generally, no. Home Affairs processes applications according to its directions and the order they become ready to decide. You can contact the Department if your application is well outside published processing times, or if there are compelling circumstances, but there is no paid express option.
Frequently asked questions
Does lodging the nomination and visa together make it faster?
It can reduce delays, because Home Affairs can assess both at once and there is no gap between nomination approval and visa lodgement.
Can I work while my 186 is processed?
If you held a 482 visa and applied in Australia, you usually stay on your 482 or a bridging visa with work rights. Check your conditions in VEVO.
Why are some 186 applications approved faster than mine?
Priority processing, the stream, the occupation and how complete each application is all play a part. Processing times are a guide and individual applications vary.
Official sources
Updated October 2026. Visa rules, fees and processing times change often, so always check the official sources before you act.