Australia Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) in 2026

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), subclass 186, is a permanent residence visa based on nomination by an Australian employer. Two commonly used pathways are Direct Entry and Temporary Residence Transition (TRT), and their evidence requirements differ.

Direct Entry

For Direct Entry, the applicant generally must be under 45 unless an exemption applies, have an eligible occupation, demonstrate competent English, and hold a suitable skills assessment unless exempt. Home Affairs also requires at least three years of relevant work experience unless an exemption applies.

The employer nomination must satisfy the position, business and salary requirements. The employer is expected to intend the nominated employment to continue for at least two years after visa grant.

Temporary Residence Transition

The TRT stream is designed for eligible sponsored workers transitioning from temporary employer-sponsored status. Current Home Affairs guidance generally requires at least two years of eligible sponsored employment in the three years immediately before application, together with nomination by the relevant employer and the other stream requirements. Age is generally under 45 unless an exemption applies.

A subclass 482 visa does not automatically become a 186. The permanent application is a separate legal process and must meet the rules at lodgement and decision.

English, health and character

Competent English is generally required for the main applicant unless an exemption applies. Health and character requirements apply. Adult family members with less than functional English can attract a second instalment; the current Home Affairs 186 information lists AUD 4,890 for the relevant adult additional applicant circumstance.

Cost and permanent rights

The current Home Affairs listing shows the subclass 186 main-applicant charge from AUD 6,140 in 2026. Exact charges depend on the stream and family composition.

Because subclass 186 is permanent, holders can live, work and study in Australia without employer-tied visa work conditions after grant, subject to general law. The employer nomination remains central to visa eligibility and should be genuine.

186 versus 482 and 494

Use subclass 482 for temporary Skills in Demand sponsorship. Use subclass 494 for qualifying regional provisional sponsorship. Each has different occupation, duration, salary, experience and location settings.

Return to the Australia visa hub, Oceania or work visa routes.

Source: Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, verified 16 September 2026.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Australia