Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) lets an approved employer nominate a skilled worker for permanent residence. For your business, it's a powerful retention tool — a way to keep the people you've invested in rather than losing them when a temporary visa runs down. The requirements around the nominated position, the worker's skills, and your business are specific, and getting the nomination right is what determines the outcome. We assess whether the 186 is the right fit before you start, prepare a decision-ready nomination, and manage the process so your employee's transition to permanent residence is handled without disruption to your business.
What is included
We confirm whether your business and the nominated role meet the requirements, and which stream fits best, before committing.
We prepare and lodge a complete nomination built to the standard the Department expects, not a partial one we hope gets through.
We align your nomination with the worker's visa application so the two move together smoothly.
One Registered Migration Agent owns your matter from assessment to decision.
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 4 August 2026. Based on recently decided applications; figures are indicative only and depend on individual circumstances.
Real results from real clients
See how businesses like yours partner with us to sponsor and retain talent.