Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer for an ongoing, full-time position. Because it grants permanent residence outright, the requirements are more demanding than a temporary work visa, and getting the detail right matters. The are three streams under the 186 visa program with the main streams being the Direct entry Stream and the Temporary Transition stream. The Direct Entry stream is for applicants who haven't worked long-term in Australia on an employer-sponsored visa, and it usually requires a suitable skills assessment and three years of relevant experience at the skilled level The Temporary Residence Transition stream is for those who have been the primary sponsored 482 visa holder working in Australia for two out of the last three years. Most applicants need to be under 45 (with some exemptions) and hold at least competent English. The Labour Agreement Stream is specific to the Labour Agreement- and we can guide you through this. We work out which stream genuinely fits you before lodging — and if we don't think a matter is ready, we'll say so. A dedicated Registered Migration Agent prepares and manages your permanent residence application from start to finish.
What is included
We assess whether the Direct Entry, Temporary Residence Transition or Labour Agreement stream is right for you, since the requirements and evidence differ significantly between them.
We identify whether you require a skills assessment, help prepare the assessment where it's required, and make sure your employer's nomination lines up with your application.
We prepare complete skills, experience, English, health, and character evidence, so your PR application is lodged in a state the Department can decide.
One Registered Migration Agent manages your matter throughout and is your single point of accountable contact.
Processing estimates
Timeframes by stream
Direct Entry Pathway
- 50% of applications
- 10 Months
- 90% of applications
- 14 Months
Agreement Pathway
- 50% of applications
- 8 Months
- 90% of applications
- 10 Months
Transition Pathway
- 50% of applications
- 11 Months
- 90% of applications
- 15 Months
| Stream | 50% of applications | 90% of applications |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Entry Pathway | 10 Months | 14 Months |
| Agreement Pathway | 8 Months | 10 Months |
| Transition Pathway | 11 Months | 15 Months |
Source: Australian Department of Home Affairs · Last checked 6 August 2026. Based on recently decided applications; figures are indicative only and depend on individual circumstances.
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