Employer sponsored
Subclass 186
Employer Nomination Scheme
Permanent residency through your Australian employer.
Reviewed by SavieMEC's registered migration agents
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About the 186 visa
The 186 visa lets an Australian employer nominate a skilled worker for a permanent position. Most of our clients reach it through the Temporary Residence Transition stream after working on a 482.
The employer's nomination and the worker's application are assessed together, so both need to be strong.
Streams
Temporary Residence Transition
For 482 holders who have worked for their sponsor, generally for 2 years
Direct Entry
Skills assessment and 3 years' experience in an eligible occupation
Labour Agreement
Through an employer's labour agreement
Key requirements
- An approved nomination from an eligible employer
- A genuine, ongoing full-time position at market salary
- Under 45 at application (exemptions apply)
- Competent English
- Skills assessment and 3 years' experience (Direct Entry)
- Health and character requirements
What this visa lets you do
- Live, work and study permanently in Australia
- Enrol in Medicare
- Sponsor eligible family
- Apply for citizenship when eligible
How to apply
- 01
Step 1
Confirm your stream and eligibility
- 02
Step 2
Employer lodges the nomination
- 03
Step 3
Worker lodges the visa application
- 04
Step 4
Health checks and police certificates
- 05
Step 5
Decision
Common reasons applications fail
- Employer can't show the position is genuine and ongoing
- Salary below market rate
- Breaks in employment with the sponsor (TRT)
- Age or English exemptions claimed incorrectly
Download PDF
Employer sponsorship checklist
Free PDF checklist. Print it or save it to your phone before your consultation.
Download PDFGovernment fees
What Home Affairs charges, current as at 1 July 2026. These are not our professional fees.
Employer sponsorship, nomination and levy
| Fee | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Standard business sponsorship application Approval usually lasts 5 years. | $420 |
| Skills in Demand (482) nomination For each nomination. | $330 |
| Employer Nomination Scheme (186) nomination Nil for Temporary Residence Transition or labour agreement positions in regional Australia. | $540 |
| Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (494) nomination | Nil |
| Skilling Australians Fund levy, 482, turnover under $10 million For each year of the visa period nominated. | $1,200 |
| Skilling Australians Fund levy, 482, turnover $10 million or more For each year of the visa period nominated. | $1,800 |
| Skilling Australians Fund levy, 186 or 494, turnover under $10 million Paid once, with the nomination. | $3,000 |
| Skilling Australians Fund levy, 186 or 494, turnover $10 million or more Paid once, with the nomination. | $5,000 |
Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)
| Fee | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | $6,140 |
| Each additional applicant aged 18 or over | $3,070 |
| Each additional applicant under 18 | $1,535 |
Not sure which visa fits?
Book a consultation and we'll map out your options.
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for the 186 visa from a 482 visa?
Through the Temporary Residence Transition stream, you can generally apply after working for your sponsoring employer for 2 years while holding a 482 visa. We check your exact dates and employment history before you lodge.
Do I need a skills assessment for the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (186)?
Usually not for the Temporary Residence Transition stream. The Direct Entry stream generally needs a positive skills assessment and at least 3 years of relevant work experience, unless an exemption applies.
Is there an age limit for the 186 visa?
Yes. You generally must be under 45 when you apply for the Employer Nomination Scheme visa. Some exemptions apply, for example for some high-income earners, certain medical practitioners and some long-term 482 visa holders. We check whether an exemption applies to you.
Do I have to stay with my employer after the 186 visa is granted?
Your employer nominates the position for at least 2 years, and you must intend to work in it. The visa is permanent, but leaving very early can raise questions. Get advice before you change jobs.
General information only, not migration advice. Visa rules change often. We'll confirm what applies to you in a consultation. Last reviewed October 2026 by SavieMEC's registered migration agents.