Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186

Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186

Secure Permanent Residency Through Employer Sponsorship

The ENS Visa (Subclass 186) offers a direct pathway to Australian permanent residency for skilled workers who are sponsored by an eligible Australian employer. Whether you're already in Australia or applying from overseas, this visa can help turn your skilled job into a long-term future.

It’s ideal for professionals who want to settle permanently and access all the benefits of living and working in Australia.

What Is the ENS Visa (Subclass 186)?

The Employer Nomination Scheme visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer. It supports employers in filling genuine skill shortages with overseas talent and enables skilled workers to build a life in Australia.

Why Apply for This Visa?

This visa grants permanent residency from the outset, opening up a wide range of personal and professional benefits.

• Australian PR from day one
• Live and work anywhere in Australia
• Access Medicare and other public services
• Include your partner and children
• Pathway to citizenship after eligibility period

Who Should Consider It?

This visa is ideal for workers currently in Australia on a temporary visa, or for skilled professionals overseas with an eligible job offer.

• TSS 482 visa holders eligible for PR
• Offshore professionals with job offers from Australian employers
• Workers in occupations on the MLTSSL

ENS Visa Streams

There are three streams under the ENS 186 visa, designed to suit different employment and eligibility backgrounds.

• Direct Entry Stream – For applicants who meet skills and experience requirements but have limited Australian work history
• Temporary Residence Transition Stream – For 482 visa holders who’ve worked for their sponsoring employer for at least 2 years
• Labour Agreement Stream – For applicants nominated under a formal labour agreement

ENS 186 Visa Requirements

Applicants must meet core eligibility requirements depending on their chosen stream.

• Be under 45 years of age (some exemptions apply)
• Be nominated by an Australian employer
• Have at least 3 years of relevant experience
• Hold a skills assessment for the nominated occupation (in some cases)
• Meet the English language requirement (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
• Satisfy health and character requirements

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Applying for the ENS Visa involves both employer and employee contributions.

1. Employer lodges a nomination application
2. Employee submits a visa application
3. Submit required documents
4. Undergo health checks and provide police clearances
5. Await visa decision (typically 4–8 months)

What You’ll Need

You’ll need documentation to support your nomination and demonstrate eligibility.

• Valid passport
• Employer nomination reference
• Evidence of qualifications and work experience
• English test results
• Police clearance certificates
• Health assessments

Health & Character Requirements

Applicants must pass health checks and provide evidence of good character.

• Medical exams through a panel physician
• Police checks from all countries lived in for 12+ months

Why Apply with Us?

Our migration specialists have helped hundreds of skilled professionals transition to permanent residency through Subclass 186.

✅ End-to-end support from nomination to approval

✅ Liaison with your sponsoring employer

✅ Help preparing a compliant, complete application

✅ PR strategy for you and your family

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DISCLAIMER: This is general guidance only. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date information.