Looking at an Australian migration may be a daunting experience, especially to the skilled professionals who want to pursue a permanent future in Australia, but the 186 visa offers a superior passage. VXL education & migration consultants are specialists in helping both individuals and employers in the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa process through all the stages. Our experience will provide you with an easy and effective application and make the dream of living in Australia permanently come to reality. Write to us now, and you are on your way to change and confidence.

What is the 186 Visa?

The Subclass 186 visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are sponsored by their Australian employer and are recommended to stay and work in Australia permanently. Being the most important component of the employer nomination scheme, the ENS visa gives a clear path to skilled workers to gain 186 permanent residency and settle in Australia.

The 186 visa Australia is divided into three distinct streams, each catering to different circumstances:

• Direct Entry Stream: For skilled workers who may be new to Australia or who have not held a subclass 482 visa.
• Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream: Designed for those who have already worked for their nominating employer on a temporary visa.
• Labour Agreement Stream: For workers sponsored by an employer under a formal labour agreement with the Australian government.

What Can You Do With This Visa?

A successful 186 pr visa application grants you and your family a range of benefits, including the ability to:

• Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
• Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
• Sponsor eligible relatives to come to Australia.
• Travel to and from Australia for up to five years.
• Apply for Australian citizenship if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Who is This Visa For?

This visa is ideal for:

• Skilled workers who have been working in Australia on a temporary visa (such as a 482 visa) and wish to transition to permanent residency.
• Overseas skilled workers with the required experience and qualifications for a nominated position in Australia.
• Australian employers who wish to sponsor and retain a skilled temporary worker on a permanent basis to fill a skills gap.

Streams of the Subclass 186

The requirements, time and cost vary in each stream of the 186-subclass visa. It is important to realise which of the streams fits you best.

Direct Entry Stream

The 186 direct stream entry is intended for the skilled workers who do not have access to the TRT stream.

• Definition: Enables skilled workers to acquire permanent residency without having to go through a temporary visa to a permanent one.
• Eligibility Requirements: Requires a positive skills assessment, at least three years of relevant work experience, and meeting the age, English, and other 186 visa requirements.
• Stay Period: Permanent.
• Processing Time: The 186 direct entry processing time is currently estimated at 6 to 17 months, with 50% of applications processed within 6 months.

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream

The stream is aimed at granting access to permanent residency 186 to skilled workers who are already present in Australia.

• Definition: A streamlined process available to those skilled workers who have been employed by their sponsoring employer on a 457 or 482 visa.
• Eligibility Requirements: You must have worked for your employer on a full-time basis for a minimum of two years on a 457 or 482 visa. The occupation no longer needs to be on an occupation list.
• Stay Period: Permanent.
• Processing Time: The 186 TRT processing time is estimated at 11 to 15 months, with 50% of applications processed within 11 months.

Labour Agreement Stream

This stream is for workers sponsored under a formal agreement between an Australian employer and the government.

• Definition: Used by employers who have a formal labour agreement 186 with the Australian government to sponsor overseas skilled workers.
• Eligibility Requirements: The requirements for age, English language, and skills are set out in the specific labour agreement.
• Stay Period: Permanent.
• Processing Time: Processing times can vary depending on the specific agreement, but are currently estimated at 81 days to 11 months.

Eligibility and 186 Visa Requirements

Meeting the strict 186 visa requirements is critical for a successful application. Here is a breakdown of the key criteria:

Employer Requirements

• The employer must be actively and lawfully operating in Australia.
• The nominated position must be genuine and full-time for at least two years.
• The salary for the position must be at the market rate and not less than the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).

Applicant Requirements

• Skills and Qualifications: You must have the necessary skills and qualifications for the nominated occupation. A positive skills assessment is mandatory for the Direct Entry stream.
• Work Experience: A minimum of three years of relevant post-qualification work experience is required for the Direct Entry stream.
• Age Limit: You must be under 45 years of age at the time of your application, unless an exemption applies.
• Health and Character Checks: You and all family members must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.

English Requirements

• 186 visa English requirement: You must demonstrate at least “Competent English” by providing a valid English language test result (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT).

Visa Fees and Processing Time

Understanding the costs and timelines is a crucial part of the process. The 186 visa processing time is subject to change based on the volume and complexity of applications.

• Latest Visa Application Charges: The base application charge for the subclass 186 visa from July 1, 2025, is AUD$4,910 for the main applicant. Additional fees apply for each dependent family member.
• Extra Costs: Be prepared for additional costs for skills assessments, English language tests, health examinations, and police checks. Professional fees for a migration agent will also apply.
• Factors Affecting Processing Time: Delays can occur due to incomplete applications, a high volume of applications, or complexities in health and character checks. Working with a professional can help you avoid these common pitfalls.

How to Apply for the Subclass 186

The 186 visa application process is a two-stage procedure involving both the employer and the applicant. VXL Education handles each stage on your behalf to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

1. Check Eligibility: We assess both your and your employer’s eligibility for the chosen stream.
2. Employer Lodges Nomination: Your employer submits a nomination application to the Department of Home Affairs, which must be approved before you can apply for the visa.
3. Gather Required Documents: We help you compile all necessary documents, including proof of identity, work experience, qualifications, and English language proficiency.
4. Lodge 186 Visa Application: Once the nomination is approved, we lodge your 186 visa application within the six-month timeframe.
5. Await Outcome: We liaise with the DHA on your behalf and keep you informed of any updates until a decision is made.

Benefits of the 186 Visa

The 186 visa Australia has numerous enticements that prove that it is a wise choice among skilled labourers. It is the visa that paves the 186 permanent residency and provides your family with a long-term future in Australia. The 186 PR visa gives you the freedom to reside, work, and study within the Australian mainland permanently and access the public services offered within the country, such as Medicare.

Common Challenges and How VXL Helps

Even with careful planning, the 186 visa application can present challenges. We provide expert assistance in overcoming hurdles such as:

• Skills Assessment Hurdles: Navigating the complex requirements of skills assessment authorities.
• Nomination Refusals: Addressing issues that lead to a nomination being refused and providing solutions.
• Incorrect Stream Selection: Ensuring you apply for the most suitable stream from the start, saving time and money.

Why Choose VXL Education for Your 186 Visa?

Choosing the right migration consultant is the most important step in your visa journey. At VXL Education, we offer:

• MARA-Registered Agents: Our team of MARA-registered agents provides professional, ethical, and up-to-date legal advice.
• Personalised Guidance: We understand that every case is unique and provide tailored strategies for your situation.
• Proven Success: Our track record of successful subclass 186 visa grants speaks for itself.

Start Your 186 Visa Journey with VXL Migration and Education Consultants

Don’t leave your Australian permanent residency dream to chance. Start your 186 visa journey with confidence by contacting VXL Education & Migration Consultants. Our expertise in the employer nomination scheme will streamline your application, reduce stress, and improve your chances of a positive outcome.

FAQs About the 186 Visa

How long does the 186 visa take to process?

The 186 visa processing time varies by stream. The 186 direct entry processing time is typically 6 to 17 months, while the 186 TRT processing time is 11 to 15 months.

Is IELTS required for the 186 visa?

You need to demonstrate “Competent English” through an approved English language test, which includes IELTS, PTE, and others.

What are the 186 visa conditions?

The main 186 visa conditions require you to work for your nominating employer for at least two years after the visa is granted.

Can I include my family in the 186 visa application?

Yes, you can include eligible family members (partner and dependent children) in your 186 visa application.

What is the difference between TRT and Direct Entry?

The TRT stream is for those who have worked on a 482 visa for at least two years, while the Direct Entry stream is for applicants who are not eligible for the TRT stream and must meet a higher set of requirements.

Do I need a skills assessment for the 186 visa?

A skills assessment is mandatory for the Direct Entry stream, but is generally not required for the TRT stream.

What is the minimum salary for a 186 visa sponsorship?

Your salary must be at the market rate and meet or exceed the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).

Can I apply for the 186 visa while in Australia?

Yes, you can apply for the 186 visa while in Australia if you hold an eligible visa.

Can I change employers after my 186 visa is granted?

While the visa requires a commitment to work for your employer for two years, you are a permanent resident, and there is no legal penalty enforced by the Department of Home Affairs if the arrangement ends earlier. However, a change of employer in the first two years could be a potential red flag in a future visa application.

What happens if my 186 nomination is refused?

If your nomination is refused, your visa application will also be refused. You may have the option to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).